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The Princess' temper was still grating her even when they were given the permission to sit. At first, she wouldn't even look at Basilides, far too irritated by the ladies around her to show her shame to the man who was likely outright balking at her back. Though he also likely showed no emotion about it at all, thinking of chastising her in the quiet rather than outloud for everyone to hear. There was a part of her that was so overwhelmingly protective of the new Queen that she really hadn't been able to help herself.
There seemed to be nothing worse than listening to something so vile on someone's first time running court. Xene had run it a time or two in her mother's stead, and then when the Egyptian delegate had visited. Right before war had been declared on all of Greece. But still, the princess found herself wanting Queen Theodora to have a steady, no-drama court session. All of the snakes could start biting at the next ones, she supposed.
Moving toward her seat, still without giving Basilides another look now that she had already embarrassed herself. But he stopped her before she could settle down, her blue gaze lifting to his face as he instructed her quietly. With her brows furrowed, she glanced away again, worry and embarrassment shinning there, though she said little on the subject besides a soft, "Thank you, my friend," as she stepped past him to settle in her own seat close to the queen and Lady Evangelina.
From there, Xene found her attention drifting elsewhere. Instead, she focused on listening, her own gaze lifting to find her sister for a short moment. Meeting Princess Gianna's gaze, she then looked away, Lord Fotios' words ringing in her mind once more. They had left her pensive and quiet, her stomach twisting itself into knots at what he could possibly mean. An effort to protect herself and her family, but through what means?
Glancing at Basilides, she nodded toward the other ladies in a short motion, "I know you would like to wander, Basilides. Do not allow me to keep you," she said just soft enough for only himself to hear. Then she reached for her own wine from a tray, bringing the cup to her lips to take a slow sip. It was measured and enough to distract her mind from thoughts of her lover and his promises with no backing thus far. Little words said in a passion, she was sure.
Already, she was listening once again to the world around her, letting her gaze drift off toward the ladies who were once again gossiping. Then she tore it away, letting them speak, but doing as Basilides had guided her only a few moments before. Listening to those around her to see who had loose lips and who would continue to spread poison throughout Queen Theodora's court. Her gaze distant, the princess found herself looking off into the gardens, no longer paying attention to the conversation between Theodora and Evangelina simply because it did not include her, nor require her sticking her nose into the business.
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The Princess' temper was still grating her even when they were given the permission to sit. At first, she wouldn't even look at Basilides, far too irritated by the ladies around her to show her shame to the man who was likely outright balking at her back. Though he also likely showed no emotion about it at all, thinking of chastising her in the quiet rather than outloud for everyone to hear. There was a part of her that was so overwhelmingly protective of the new Queen that she really hadn't been able to help herself.
There seemed to be nothing worse than listening to something so vile on someone's first time running court. Xene had run it a time or two in her mother's stead, and then when the Egyptian delegate had visited. Right before war had been declared on all of Greece. But still, the princess found herself wanting Queen Theodora to have a steady, no-drama court session. All of the snakes could start biting at the next ones, she supposed.
Moving toward her seat, still without giving Basilides another look now that she had already embarrassed herself. But he stopped her before she could settle down, her blue gaze lifting to his face as he instructed her quietly. With her brows furrowed, she glanced away again, worry and embarrassment shinning there, though she said little on the subject besides a soft, "Thank you, my friend," as she stepped past him to settle in her own seat close to the queen and Lady Evangelina.
From there, Xene found her attention drifting elsewhere. Instead, she focused on listening, her own gaze lifting to find her sister for a short moment. Meeting Princess Gianna's gaze, she then looked away, Lord Fotios' words ringing in her mind once more. They had left her pensive and quiet, her stomach twisting itself into knots at what he could possibly mean. An effort to protect herself and her family, but through what means?
Glancing at Basilides, she nodded toward the other ladies in a short motion, "I know you would like to wander, Basilides. Do not allow me to keep you," she said just soft enough for only himself to hear. Then she reached for her own wine from a tray, bringing the cup to her lips to take a slow sip. It was measured and enough to distract her mind from thoughts of her lover and his promises with no backing thus far. Little words said in a passion, she was sure.
Already, she was listening once again to the world around her, letting her gaze drift off toward the ladies who were once again gossiping. Then she tore it away, letting them speak, but doing as Basilides had guided her only a few moments before. Listening to those around her to see who had loose lips and who would continue to spread poison throughout Queen Theodora's court. Her gaze distant, the princess found herself looking off into the gardens, no longer paying attention to the conversation between Theodora and Evangelina simply because it did not include her, nor require her sticking her nose into the business.
The Princess' temper was still grating her even when they were given the permission to sit. At first, she wouldn't even look at Basilides, far too irritated by the ladies around her to show her shame to the man who was likely outright balking at her back. Though he also likely showed no emotion about it at all, thinking of chastising her in the quiet rather than outloud for everyone to hear. There was a part of her that was so overwhelmingly protective of the new Queen that she really hadn't been able to help herself.
There seemed to be nothing worse than listening to something so vile on someone's first time running court. Xene had run it a time or two in her mother's stead, and then when the Egyptian delegate had visited. Right before war had been declared on all of Greece. But still, the princess found herself wanting Queen Theodora to have a steady, no-drama court session. All of the snakes could start biting at the next ones, she supposed.
Moving toward her seat, still without giving Basilides another look now that she had already embarrassed herself. But he stopped her before she could settle down, her blue gaze lifting to his face as he instructed her quietly. With her brows furrowed, she glanced away again, worry and embarrassment shinning there, though she said little on the subject besides a soft, "Thank you, my friend," as she stepped past him to settle in her own seat close to the queen and Lady Evangelina.
From there, Xene found her attention drifting elsewhere. Instead, she focused on listening, her own gaze lifting to find her sister for a short moment. Meeting Princess Gianna's gaze, she then looked away, Lord Fotios' words ringing in her mind once more. They had left her pensive and quiet, her stomach twisting itself into knots at what he could possibly mean. An effort to protect herself and her family, but through what means?
Glancing at Basilides, she nodded toward the other ladies in a short motion, "I know you would like to wander, Basilides. Do not allow me to keep you," she said just soft enough for only himself to hear. Then she reached for her own wine from a tray, bringing the cup to her lips to take a slow sip. It was measured and enough to distract her mind from thoughts of her lover and his promises with no backing thus far. Little words said in a passion, she was sure.
Already, she was listening once again to the world around her, letting her gaze drift off toward the ladies who were once again gossiping. Then she tore it away, letting them speak, but doing as Basilides had guided her only a few moments before. Listening to those around her to see who had loose lips and who would continue to spread poison throughout Queen Theodora's court. Her gaze distant, the princess found herself looking off into the gardens, no longer paying attention to the conversation between Theodora and Evangelina simply because it did not include her, nor require her sticking her nose into the business.
Basilides could feel the eyes on him. Not only was he the only man in a sea of women, but he was commonborn among the nobility. Granted, an anomaly was allowed if they offered entertainment or interest, and while recent days had little to show for it, he could provide more there than simply being a curiosity at the arm of Princess Xene.
His name and that of his family gained notoriety from his involvement in outfitting the Royal Wedding at the request of the Dynasteía Leventi, and he supposed it was good fortune alone that spared him giving them the opportunity for disappointment in him, as he had done with Princess Xene. Half of the family ventured to Colchis directly after the Wedding, at the time that he had found out about Zephyrus.
This was well-timed, and while he now he attended this court session in a different respect, he welcomed the opportunity to slip into this persona. It was easier and less emotional to be among others, filling a role, than playing a part in his own story right now. Distraction was necessary - he could both seek and provide it.
Once the Princess had settled into her seat, Basilides gave her a light bow of his head, "You know me too well, Your Highness. Thank you. I will return."
Standing and offering quiet parting bows to the Queen and other ladies at her side, he slipped away from their side, making a bit of a wide pass around the edge of the grounds, making as if to examine some of the trees or find his own bit of space. In truth, he was taking in the company he shared, familiar with most of the women in attendance, if not deeply familiar with each one.
His eyes sparked a bit as he saw Lady Melina, his expression morphing into one thoroughly impressed. Basilides had the pleasure of keeping company with her as well. It seemed the young noblewoman had taken to heart some of their conversations on confidence and stepping out of the shadow of others, particularly with 'playing the role' even if one did not feel it. How ironic, given that those talks had happened before he had managed to spiral downward so completely.
In her company was Princess Gianna, Xene's sister. Their brief interaction had been quite eventful, on the night of the Egyptian entourage's visit that saw her gown splattered and ruined as Lady Nana cried over spilt wine. In retrospect, it was humorous to no end, but as for now, it saw itself as an opportunity. Catching Lady Melina's eye, he smiled to her and crossed to where they sat. Bowing to them he gestured slightly to the grassy space next to where they sat in chairs. He was more than aware of it nearly perfectly symbolizing the difference in their classes, which suited it. Yet, he stood until he was actually allowed to sit. Manners, and all.
"Princess, my Lady. May I join you?" he asked, his voice and expression all charm and pleasantry a moment before turning his attention to the Leventi. "My Lady, Melina, you could fool the seasons into thinking it is still summer. The shade of your gown suits you. If my family comes across the same such fabrics, I will be certain to bring them with you." He glanced toward Princess Gianna, adding on with a shared smirk of humor as he began to raise his pressed cider to his lips as he added, "And to you as well, Your Highness. If I am not mistaken, I did promise to replace your gown from that tragic incident a few months past."
A soft laugh left his nose as he took a long swig of the sweet-tart juice.
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Basilides could feel the eyes on him. Not only was he the only man in a sea of women, but he was commonborn among the nobility. Granted, an anomaly was allowed if they offered entertainment or interest, and while recent days had little to show for it, he could provide more there than simply being a curiosity at the arm of Princess Xene.
His name and that of his family gained notoriety from his involvement in outfitting the Royal Wedding at the request of the Dynasteía Leventi, and he supposed it was good fortune alone that spared him giving them the opportunity for disappointment in him, as he had done with Princess Xene. Half of the family ventured to Colchis directly after the Wedding, at the time that he had found out about Zephyrus.
This was well-timed, and while he now he attended this court session in a different respect, he welcomed the opportunity to slip into this persona. It was easier and less emotional to be among others, filling a role, than playing a part in his own story right now. Distraction was necessary - he could both seek and provide it.
Once the Princess had settled into her seat, Basilides gave her a light bow of his head, "You know me too well, Your Highness. Thank you. I will return."
Standing and offering quiet parting bows to the Queen and other ladies at her side, he slipped away from their side, making a bit of a wide pass around the edge of the grounds, making as if to examine some of the trees or find his own bit of space. In truth, he was taking in the company he shared, familiar with most of the women in attendance, if not deeply familiar with each one.
His eyes sparked a bit as he saw Lady Melina, his expression morphing into one thoroughly impressed. Basilides had the pleasure of keeping company with her as well. It seemed the young noblewoman had taken to heart some of their conversations on confidence and stepping out of the shadow of others, particularly with 'playing the role' even if one did not feel it. How ironic, given that those talks had happened before he had managed to spiral downward so completely.
In her company was Princess Gianna, Xene's sister. Their brief interaction had been quite eventful, on the night of the Egyptian entourage's visit that saw her gown splattered and ruined as Lady Nana cried over spilt wine. In retrospect, it was humorous to no end, but as for now, it saw itself as an opportunity. Catching Lady Melina's eye, he smiled to her and crossed to where they sat. Bowing to them he gestured slightly to the grassy space next to where they sat in chairs. He was more than aware of it nearly perfectly symbolizing the difference in their classes, which suited it. Yet, he stood until he was actually allowed to sit. Manners, and all.
"Princess, my Lady. May I join you?" he asked, his voice and expression all charm and pleasantry a moment before turning his attention to the Leventi. "My Lady, Melina, you could fool the seasons into thinking it is still summer. The shade of your gown suits you. If my family comes across the same such fabrics, I will be certain to bring them with you." He glanced toward Princess Gianna, adding on with a shared smirk of humor as he began to raise his pressed cider to his lips as he added, "And to you as well, Your Highness. If I am not mistaken, I did promise to replace your gown from that tragic incident a few months past."
A soft laugh left his nose as he took a long swig of the sweet-tart juice.
Basilides could feel the eyes on him. Not only was he the only man in a sea of women, but he was commonborn among the nobility. Granted, an anomaly was allowed if they offered entertainment or interest, and while recent days had little to show for it, he could provide more there than simply being a curiosity at the arm of Princess Xene.
His name and that of his family gained notoriety from his involvement in outfitting the Royal Wedding at the request of the Dynasteía Leventi, and he supposed it was good fortune alone that spared him giving them the opportunity for disappointment in him, as he had done with Princess Xene. Half of the family ventured to Colchis directly after the Wedding, at the time that he had found out about Zephyrus.
This was well-timed, and while he now he attended this court session in a different respect, he welcomed the opportunity to slip into this persona. It was easier and less emotional to be among others, filling a role, than playing a part in his own story right now. Distraction was necessary - he could both seek and provide it.
Once the Princess had settled into her seat, Basilides gave her a light bow of his head, "You know me too well, Your Highness. Thank you. I will return."
Standing and offering quiet parting bows to the Queen and other ladies at her side, he slipped away from their side, making a bit of a wide pass around the edge of the grounds, making as if to examine some of the trees or find his own bit of space. In truth, he was taking in the company he shared, familiar with most of the women in attendance, if not deeply familiar with each one.
His eyes sparked a bit as he saw Lady Melina, his expression morphing into one thoroughly impressed. Basilides had the pleasure of keeping company with her as well. It seemed the young noblewoman had taken to heart some of their conversations on confidence and stepping out of the shadow of others, particularly with 'playing the role' even if one did not feel it. How ironic, given that those talks had happened before he had managed to spiral downward so completely.
In her company was Princess Gianna, Xene's sister. Their brief interaction had been quite eventful, on the night of the Egyptian entourage's visit that saw her gown splattered and ruined as Lady Nana cried over spilt wine. In retrospect, it was humorous to no end, but as for now, it saw itself as an opportunity. Catching Lady Melina's eye, he smiled to her and crossed to where they sat. Bowing to them he gestured slightly to the grassy space next to where they sat in chairs. He was more than aware of it nearly perfectly symbolizing the difference in their classes, which suited it. Yet, he stood until he was actually allowed to sit. Manners, and all.
"Princess, my Lady. May I join you?" he asked, his voice and expression all charm and pleasantry a moment before turning his attention to the Leventi. "My Lady, Melina, you could fool the seasons into thinking it is still summer. The shade of your gown suits you. If my family comes across the same such fabrics, I will be certain to bring them with you." He glanced toward Princess Gianna, adding on with a shared smirk of humor as he began to raise his pressed cider to his lips as he added, "And to you as well, Your Highness. If I am not mistaken, I did promise to replace your gown from that tragic incident a few months past."
A soft laugh left his nose as he took a long swig of the sweet-tart juice.
Since her mother and three of her sisters had left for Colchis, Imma had been spending about half of her time at home with her father and the other half at the palace with Theodora. She was happy that she had her father’s attention all to herself, but she was so accustomed to female companionship that sometimes she missed it. Theodora seemed to enjoy her company. Perhaps having a sister to talk to eased the pressure of her new duties as the Queen of Taengea. The young blonde tried not to envy her, but that was impossible. Two of her sisters had become queens and she suspected that Selene would stay in Colchis as the wife of the Crown Prince. Nana would probably marry a prince as well, but Imma doubted that she would be so lucky. Still, a girl could always dream.
She loved the rooms she had been given They were decorated in the pastel hues she adored and a servant brought in vases of fresh flowers every morning. Usually, Imma spent her days sketching or painting in the palati and the gardens unless Theodora joined her or sent for her. She tried to support the new queen as well as she could, knowing this was a difficult time for her. After all, she had taken her own sister’s throne. She had to be feeling a bit guilty. Imma knew she would.
Today Theodora was hosting her first court session and Imma was pleased that it would be held outdoors. It was a beautiful autumn day and it would be dreary, at least for her, to be cooped up inside. Most of the women who attended would probably be wearing the shades of the changing seasons … deep oranges, forest greens, and burnished golds … and while the youngest Leventi girl wanted to fit in, the chiton she ultimately chose was the color of coral with wide bands of mint green embroidered with coral flowers around the edges.
It was fastened with opal fibulae at her shoulders and down both arms. A belt made of mint green silk twisted with pearls crossed between her growing breasts, wrapped around her small waist three times in rows and tied at one side. The ends flowed to her hem and swayed whenever she walked. She wore only two pieces of jewelry … a pair of earrings made of opals and looped pearls, and a circlet made of pearls with a large opal at the center. Her hair was dressed simply in a swirling coiffure of ringlets and pearls. On her feet were sandals were made of white leather, their straps decorated with pearls.
Before she left the room, she plucked two lilies out of a vase, sticking one into her circlet and the other right above the knot on her belt.
She was in a cheerful mood as she joined the gathering and was immediately drawn to a table full of food. As she filled a plate with various savory and sweet delicacies, she looked around her. Theo was talking with her cousin Evie and Princess Xene. Imma saw no reason to greet the Queen, as she did it every day in an informal sisterly fashion. Spotting another of her cousins, Melina, sitting with Princess Gianna, she decided to greet them. At least she would be able to sit down while she ate. There was at least one empty chair close to them.
Grabbing a glass of fruit juice, she approached them, walking slowly so she wouldn’t spill either her food or her drink. She even managed a curtsy while balancing her full plate in one hand and a glass in the other It wasn’t very graceful, and Imma imagined that her mother would groan if she saw it. “Good day, Princess Gianna, Lady Melina,” she said in her quiet voice. “May I join you?”
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Since her mother and three of her sisters had left for Colchis, Imma had been spending about half of her time at home with her father and the other half at the palace with Theodora. She was happy that she had her father’s attention all to herself, but she was so accustomed to female companionship that sometimes she missed it. Theodora seemed to enjoy her company. Perhaps having a sister to talk to eased the pressure of her new duties as the Queen of Taengea. The young blonde tried not to envy her, but that was impossible. Two of her sisters had become queens and she suspected that Selene would stay in Colchis as the wife of the Crown Prince. Nana would probably marry a prince as well, but Imma doubted that she would be so lucky. Still, a girl could always dream.
She loved the rooms she had been given They were decorated in the pastel hues she adored and a servant brought in vases of fresh flowers every morning. Usually, Imma spent her days sketching or painting in the palati and the gardens unless Theodora joined her or sent for her. She tried to support the new queen as well as she could, knowing this was a difficult time for her. After all, she had taken her own sister’s throne. She had to be feeling a bit guilty. Imma knew she would.
Today Theodora was hosting her first court session and Imma was pleased that it would be held outdoors. It was a beautiful autumn day and it would be dreary, at least for her, to be cooped up inside. Most of the women who attended would probably be wearing the shades of the changing seasons … deep oranges, forest greens, and burnished golds … and while the youngest Leventi girl wanted to fit in, the chiton she ultimately chose was the color of coral with wide bands of mint green embroidered with coral flowers around the edges.
It was fastened with opal fibulae at her shoulders and down both arms. A belt made of mint green silk twisted with pearls crossed between her growing breasts, wrapped around her small waist three times in rows and tied at one side. The ends flowed to her hem and swayed whenever she walked. She wore only two pieces of jewelry … a pair of earrings made of opals and looped pearls, and a circlet made of pearls with a large opal at the center. Her hair was dressed simply in a swirling coiffure of ringlets and pearls. On her feet were sandals were made of white leather, their straps decorated with pearls.
Before she left the room, she plucked two lilies out of a vase, sticking one into her circlet and the other right above the knot on her belt.
She was in a cheerful mood as she joined the gathering and was immediately drawn to a table full of food. As she filled a plate with various savory and sweet delicacies, she looked around her. Theo was talking with her cousin Evie and Princess Xene. Imma saw no reason to greet the Queen, as she did it every day in an informal sisterly fashion. Spotting another of her cousins, Melina, sitting with Princess Gianna, she decided to greet them. At least she would be able to sit down while she ate. There was at least one empty chair close to them.
Grabbing a glass of fruit juice, she approached them, walking slowly so she wouldn’t spill either her food or her drink. She even managed a curtsy while balancing her full plate in one hand and a glass in the other It wasn’t very graceful, and Imma imagined that her mother would groan if she saw it. “Good day, Princess Gianna, Lady Melina,” she said in her quiet voice. “May I join you?”
Since her mother and three of her sisters had left for Colchis, Imma had been spending about half of her time at home with her father and the other half at the palace with Theodora. She was happy that she had her father’s attention all to herself, but she was so accustomed to female companionship that sometimes she missed it. Theodora seemed to enjoy her company. Perhaps having a sister to talk to eased the pressure of her new duties as the Queen of Taengea. The young blonde tried not to envy her, but that was impossible. Two of her sisters had become queens and she suspected that Selene would stay in Colchis as the wife of the Crown Prince. Nana would probably marry a prince as well, but Imma doubted that she would be so lucky. Still, a girl could always dream.
She loved the rooms she had been given They were decorated in the pastel hues she adored and a servant brought in vases of fresh flowers every morning. Usually, Imma spent her days sketching or painting in the palati and the gardens unless Theodora joined her or sent for her. She tried to support the new queen as well as she could, knowing this was a difficult time for her. After all, she had taken her own sister’s throne. She had to be feeling a bit guilty. Imma knew she would.
Today Theodora was hosting her first court session and Imma was pleased that it would be held outdoors. It was a beautiful autumn day and it would be dreary, at least for her, to be cooped up inside. Most of the women who attended would probably be wearing the shades of the changing seasons … deep oranges, forest greens, and burnished golds … and while the youngest Leventi girl wanted to fit in, the chiton she ultimately chose was the color of coral with wide bands of mint green embroidered with coral flowers around the edges.
It was fastened with opal fibulae at her shoulders and down both arms. A belt made of mint green silk twisted with pearls crossed between her growing breasts, wrapped around her small waist three times in rows and tied at one side. The ends flowed to her hem and swayed whenever she walked. She wore only two pieces of jewelry … a pair of earrings made of opals and looped pearls, and a circlet made of pearls with a large opal at the center. Her hair was dressed simply in a swirling coiffure of ringlets and pearls. On her feet were sandals were made of white leather, their straps decorated with pearls.
Before she left the room, she plucked two lilies out of a vase, sticking one into her circlet and the other right above the knot on her belt.
She was in a cheerful mood as she joined the gathering and was immediately drawn to a table full of food. As she filled a plate with various savory and sweet delicacies, she looked around her. Theo was talking with her cousin Evie and Princess Xene. Imma saw no reason to greet the Queen, as she did it every day in an informal sisterly fashion. Spotting another of her cousins, Melina, sitting with Princess Gianna, she decided to greet them. At least she would be able to sit down while she ate. There was at least one empty chair close to them.
Grabbing a glass of fruit juice, she approached them, walking slowly so she wouldn’t spill either her food or her drink. She even managed a curtsy while balancing her full plate in one hand and a glass in the other It wasn’t very graceful, and Imma imagined that her mother would groan if she saw it. “Good day, Princess Gianna, Lady Melina,” she said in her quiet voice. “May I join you?”
The princess gratefully accepted her friend’s invitation to sit. Settling in, her shoulders relaxed a bit. If she had her way she would spend the entirety of the court session in that very chair, watching the noblewomen as they gossiped. With a bit of luck her name would not cross any of their lips. Her attention returned to Melina as she posed a question and Gianna was quick to lift her chalice to her lips. She had not anticipated her own reaction, but her nerves were still a bit raw from recent events. After a sip of wine to allow her a moment of contemplation, she was able to formulate her response, “It is a most favorable turn of events, positively invigorating if I may be so bold?”
She had chosen her words carefully, not wanting to betray the turbulent feelings rolling beneath her surface. She supported Achilleas and Theodora, there was no doubt, but she could not deny the ache she felt for Stephanos and Olympia. She followed her words with a soft smile, one that didn’t quite reach her eyes as her mind swirled with thoughts of her brother and long lost potential. She could tell she was not alone in her meditation; the brunette’s face was drawn in thought and Gianna was curious what could be troubling her friend.
Before she had a chance to ask, Melina was already apologizing for her pensive state and inquiring as to Gianna’s wellbeing. She took the brunette’s hand in response, perhaps a bit boldly, and offered a comforting squeeze in an effort to let the girl know she was far from the only one to be lost in rumination these days. Her deflection in the form of a compliment regarding Gianna’s circlet had come a bit unexpectedly and the blonde’s hand instinctively reached for it, stopping at eye level as she realized her action before settling into her lap once again.
“Oh!—you flatter me, Lady Melina, thank you,” she chuckled. “You, on the other hand, are an absolute vision. Confidence fits you, Lady Melina. Truly, you are radiant.”
She smiled once more—for real this time, her doe eyes lighting up as they wandered the room, briefly connecting with her sister’s cerulean gaze. A familiar voice sounded and the princess looked up to see it was Imma who had been asking to join them. “Ah, Lady Imma, please join us. It’s wonderful to see you at court!” she offered, gesturing to an open seat on her other side. Gianna had seen the younger woman around the palace since her sister’s wedding, usually painting or sketching in the gardens. She had a feeling the young artist would be spending more time in residence with her mother and sisters out of the country and the princess wondered if Imma would be opposed to some company if she offered it.
She would have to find a private moment at a later time, she mused, as their small group had grown by one more. Meeting Basilides’s gaze, she smiled as she extended a hand to the grassy space he had indicated. “Master Basilides, please sit and join us, we would be honored to have your company.” While the merchant was generous with his compliments as he was wont to be, he had a way of delivering them in the most genuine manner. His recollection of the events of court sessions past that had seen the demise of her gown was enough to elicit a sincere albeit a bit surprised laugh from the princess.
“I believe you are most correct, sir. Although, I must concede the choice of color to you as you have proven your exquisite taste. I trust I would be in the most excellent hands?”
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The princess gratefully accepted her friend’s invitation to sit. Settling in, her shoulders relaxed a bit. If she had her way she would spend the entirety of the court session in that very chair, watching the noblewomen as they gossiped. With a bit of luck her name would not cross any of their lips. Her attention returned to Melina as she posed a question and Gianna was quick to lift her chalice to her lips. She had not anticipated her own reaction, but her nerves were still a bit raw from recent events. After a sip of wine to allow her a moment of contemplation, she was able to formulate her response, “It is a most favorable turn of events, positively invigorating if I may be so bold?”
She had chosen her words carefully, not wanting to betray the turbulent feelings rolling beneath her surface. She supported Achilleas and Theodora, there was no doubt, but she could not deny the ache she felt for Stephanos and Olympia. She followed her words with a soft smile, one that didn’t quite reach her eyes as her mind swirled with thoughts of her brother and long lost potential. She could tell she was not alone in her meditation; the brunette’s face was drawn in thought and Gianna was curious what could be troubling her friend.
Before she had a chance to ask, Melina was already apologizing for her pensive state and inquiring as to Gianna’s wellbeing. She took the brunette’s hand in response, perhaps a bit boldly, and offered a comforting squeeze in an effort to let the girl know she was far from the only one to be lost in rumination these days. Her deflection in the form of a compliment regarding Gianna’s circlet had come a bit unexpectedly and the blonde’s hand instinctively reached for it, stopping at eye level as she realized her action before settling into her lap once again.
“Oh!—you flatter me, Lady Melina, thank you,” she chuckled. “You, on the other hand, are an absolute vision. Confidence fits you, Lady Melina. Truly, you are radiant.”
She smiled once more—for real this time, her doe eyes lighting up as they wandered the room, briefly connecting with her sister’s cerulean gaze. A familiar voice sounded and the princess looked up to see it was Imma who had been asking to join them. “Ah, Lady Imma, please join us. It’s wonderful to see you at court!” she offered, gesturing to an open seat on her other side. Gianna had seen the younger woman around the palace since her sister’s wedding, usually painting or sketching in the gardens. She had a feeling the young artist would be spending more time in residence with her mother and sisters out of the country and the princess wondered if Imma would be opposed to some company if she offered it.
She would have to find a private moment at a later time, she mused, as their small group had grown by one more. Meeting Basilides’s gaze, she smiled as she extended a hand to the grassy space he had indicated. “Master Basilides, please sit and join us, we would be honored to have your company.” While the merchant was generous with his compliments as he was wont to be, he had a way of delivering them in the most genuine manner. His recollection of the events of court sessions past that had seen the demise of her gown was enough to elicit a sincere albeit a bit surprised laugh from the princess.
“I believe you are most correct, sir. Although, I must concede the choice of color to you as you have proven your exquisite taste. I trust I would be in the most excellent hands?”
The princess gratefully accepted her friend’s invitation to sit. Settling in, her shoulders relaxed a bit. If she had her way she would spend the entirety of the court session in that very chair, watching the noblewomen as they gossiped. With a bit of luck her name would not cross any of their lips. Her attention returned to Melina as she posed a question and Gianna was quick to lift her chalice to her lips. She had not anticipated her own reaction, but her nerves were still a bit raw from recent events. After a sip of wine to allow her a moment of contemplation, she was able to formulate her response, “It is a most favorable turn of events, positively invigorating if I may be so bold?”
She had chosen her words carefully, not wanting to betray the turbulent feelings rolling beneath her surface. She supported Achilleas and Theodora, there was no doubt, but she could not deny the ache she felt for Stephanos and Olympia. She followed her words with a soft smile, one that didn’t quite reach her eyes as her mind swirled with thoughts of her brother and long lost potential. She could tell she was not alone in her meditation; the brunette’s face was drawn in thought and Gianna was curious what could be troubling her friend.
Before she had a chance to ask, Melina was already apologizing for her pensive state and inquiring as to Gianna’s wellbeing. She took the brunette’s hand in response, perhaps a bit boldly, and offered a comforting squeeze in an effort to let the girl know she was far from the only one to be lost in rumination these days. Her deflection in the form of a compliment regarding Gianna’s circlet had come a bit unexpectedly and the blonde’s hand instinctively reached for it, stopping at eye level as she realized her action before settling into her lap once again.
“Oh!—you flatter me, Lady Melina, thank you,” she chuckled. “You, on the other hand, are an absolute vision. Confidence fits you, Lady Melina. Truly, you are radiant.”
She smiled once more—for real this time, her doe eyes lighting up as they wandered the room, briefly connecting with her sister’s cerulean gaze. A familiar voice sounded and the princess looked up to see it was Imma who had been asking to join them. “Ah, Lady Imma, please join us. It’s wonderful to see you at court!” she offered, gesturing to an open seat on her other side. Gianna had seen the younger woman around the palace since her sister’s wedding, usually painting or sketching in the gardens. She had a feeling the young artist would be spending more time in residence with her mother and sisters out of the country and the princess wondered if Imma would be opposed to some company if she offered it.
She would have to find a private moment at a later time, she mused, as their small group had grown by one more. Meeting Basilides’s gaze, she smiled as she extended a hand to the grassy space he had indicated. “Master Basilides, please sit and join us, we would be honored to have your company.” While the merchant was generous with his compliments as he was wont to be, he had a way of delivering them in the most genuine manner. His recollection of the events of court sessions past that had seen the demise of her gown was enough to elicit a sincere albeit a bit surprised laugh from the princess.
“I believe you are most correct, sir. Although, I must concede the choice of color to you as you have proven your exquisite taste. I trust I would be in the most excellent hands?”
Curveball As Autumn Falls
The general and sweet conversations of ladies of the courts continues in the pleasant day, under the sunshine and with little morsels of food and cups of wine offered at every opportunity. As the sun climbs higher, shades and servants and brought out to protect the fairest of the women from the harsher rays of the sun.
All is right and sweet until one of the women, Lady Eoia of Argothia, who has stood to one side and not engaged as much as her neighbouring ladies seems unable to hold in the emotions that have kept her features tight and starts to wail quietly into her handkerchief...
JD
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The general and sweet conversations of ladies of the courts continues in the pleasant day, under the sunshine and with little morsels of food and cups of wine offered at every opportunity. As the sun climbs higher, shades and servants and brought out to protect the fairest of the women from the harsher rays of the sun.
All is right and sweet until one of the women, Lady Eoia of Argothia, who has stood to one side and not engaged as much as her neighbouring ladies seems unable to hold in the emotions that have kept her features tight and starts to wail quietly into her handkerchief...
Curveball As Autumn Falls
The general and sweet conversations of ladies of the courts continues in the pleasant day, under the sunshine and with little morsels of food and cups of wine offered at every opportunity. As the sun climbs higher, shades and servants and brought out to protect the fairest of the women from the harsher rays of the sun.
All is right and sweet until one of the women, Lady Eoia of Argothia, who has stood to one side and not engaged as much as her neighbouring ladies seems unable to hold in the emotions that have kept her features tight and starts to wail quietly into her handkerchief...
Basilides graciously accepted the grassy space near the younger Mikaelidas Princess, his eyes unable to keep themselves from sliding over towards Princess Xene. In their many talks, the elder princess had described most indepth her love and concern for her younger sister, and knew that their shared losses and turmoils had been just as hard on her.
Princess Xene had asked him once to seek out Princess Gianna in his own right, and what better time than the present.
Shortly after he took his seat, Lady Imma of Leventi arrived and was welcomed to their company. As naturally as he could, Basilides offered a deep bow of his head in lieu of a proper standing bow, a familiar smile reaching his expression as he watched the greetings between the ladies.
He could not stop his grin at Princess Gianna's laugh as they recalled the wine-soaked dress and the abrupt end to Princess Xene's first-and-last court session. As she accepted the promise of a new gown, he shook his head and countered her offer with a grin.
"Oh, you flatter me. I thank you for the compliment, but I have another idea, perhaps, Your Highness." His eyes glanced around slightly before leaning in towards the young noblewomen as if to share a secret. "I have just heard from my family that my brother is to return from Bedoa to Acaris within a few weeks time. In tow, he always brings the most brilliant goods - furs, fabrics, pigments for paints and dyes in colors I have hardly seen before."
Basilides was no performer, but he knew his audience well. Lady Melina had just recently donned the confidence and interest in fabrics that her mother had long cherished. Lady Imma was a known artist and he discovered her love for such things from Lady Nana around the time of Queen Theodora's wedding. And, of course, Princess Gianna was owed a dress - and deserved a time of joy in this strange time, as the fates seemed to rearrange the strands of life before their eyes as the crown changed heads more than enough for one lifetime.
"What would you say, Princess, if some afternoon or morning such as this, I were to bring some of my brother's finds here to the Palati? Just a small affair where you are the first to see these treasures from foreign la-..."
Just as he was in the midst of it all, every head near them turned to the wailing of a noblewoman across the way.
Instantly uncomfortable, Basilides sat there, eyes widened by the entirely unfamiliar emotional state of a woman so near by, he murmured a quiet, "oh dear" as he exchanged glances with the young nobles around him.
Certainly, he was not the right person to deal with such a thing, right? Instead, he awkwardly glanced down at his cup of tart fruit juices and slowly took a sip, trying to look anywhere but the crying woman in the corner...
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This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
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Basilides graciously accepted the grassy space near the younger Mikaelidas Princess, his eyes unable to keep themselves from sliding over towards Princess Xene. In their many talks, the elder princess had described most indepth her love and concern for her younger sister, and knew that their shared losses and turmoils had been just as hard on her.
Princess Xene had asked him once to seek out Princess Gianna in his own right, and what better time than the present.
Shortly after he took his seat, Lady Imma of Leventi arrived and was welcomed to their company. As naturally as he could, Basilides offered a deep bow of his head in lieu of a proper standing bow, a familiar smile reaching his expression as he watched the greetings between the ladies.
He could not stop his grin at Princess Gianna's laugh as they recalled the wine-soaked dress and the abrupt end to Princess Xene's first-and-last court session. As she accepted the promise of a new gown, he shook his head and countered her offer with a grin.
"Oh, you flatter me. I thank you for the compliment, but I have another idea, perhaps, Your Highness." His eyes glanced around slightly before leaning in towards the young noblewomen as if to share a secret. "I have just heard from my family that my brother is to return from Bedoa to Acaris within a few weeks time. In tow, he always brings the most brilliant goods - furs, fabrics, pigments for paints and dyes in colors I have hardly seen before."
Basilides was no performer, but he knew his audience well. Lady Melina had just recently donned the confidence and interest in fabrics that her mother had long cherished. Lady Imma was a known artist and he discovered her love for such things from Lady Nana around the time of Queen Theodora's wedding. And, of course, Princess Gianna was owed a dress - and deserved a time of joy in this strange time, as the fates seemed to rearrange the strands of life before their eyes as the crown changed heads more than enough for one lifetime.
"What would you say, Princess, if some afternoon or morning such as this, I were to bring some of my brother's finds here to the Palati? Just a small affair where you are the first to see these treasures from foreign la-..."
Just as he was in the midst of it all, every head near them turned to the wailing of a noblewoman across the way.
Instantly uncomfortable, Basilides sat there, eyes widened by the entirely unfamiliar emotional state of a woman so near by, he murmured a quiet, "oh dear" as he exchanged glances with the young nobles around him.
Certainly, he was not the right person to deal with such a thing, right? Instead, he awkwardly glanced down at his cup of tart fruit juices and slowly took a sip, trying to look anywhere but the crying woman in the corner...
Basilides graciously accepted the grassy space near the younger Mikaelidas Princess, his eyes unable to keep themselves from sliding over towards Princess Xene. In their many talks, the elder princess had described most indepth her love and concern for her younger sister, and knew that their shared losses and turmoils had been just as hard on her.
Princess Xene had asked him once to seek out Princess Gianna in his own right, and what better time than the present.
Shortly after he took his seat, Lady Imma of Leventi arrived and was welcomed to their company. As naturally as he could, Basilides offered a deep bow of his head in lieu of a proper standing bow, a familiar smile reaching his expression as he watched the greetings between the ladies.
He could not stop his grin at Princess Gianna's laugh as they recalled the wine-soaked dress and the abrupt end to Princess Xene's first-and-last court session. As she accepted the promise of a new gown, he shook his head and countered her offer with a grin.
"Oh, you flatter me. I thank you for the compliment, but I have another idea, perhaps, Your Highness." His eyes glanced around slightly before leaning in towards the young noblewomen as if to share a secret. "I have just heard from my family that my brother is to return from Bedoa to Acaris within a few weeks time. In tow, he always brings the most brilliant goods - furs, fabrics, pigments for paints and dyes in colors I have hardly seen before."
Basilides was no performer, but he knew his audience well. Lady Melina had just recently donned the confidence and interest in fabrics that her mother had long cherished. Lady Imma was a known artist and he discovered her love for such things from Lady Nana around the time of Queen Theodora's wedding. And, of course, Princess Gianna was owed a dress - and deserved a time of joy in this strange time, as the fates seemed to rearrange the strands of life before their eyes as the crown changed heads more than enough for one lifetime.
"What would you say, Princess, if some afternoon or morning such as this, I were to bring some of my brother's finds here to the Palati? Just a small affair where you are the first to see these treasures from foreign la-..."
Just as he was in the midst of it all, every head near them turned to the wailing of a noblewoman across the way.
Instantly uncomfortable, Basilides sat there, eyes widened by the entirely unfamiliar emotional state of a woman so near by, he murmured a quiet, "oh dear" as he exchanged glances with the young nobles around him.
Certainly, he was not the right person to deal with such a thing, right? Instead, he awkwardly glanced down at his cup of tart fruit juices and slowly took a sip, trying to look anywhere but the crying woman in the corner...
As the new Queen’s attention was pulled away at the most wretched moment, just as she’d inquired why her cousin had prompted her about Lord Nikos. Forcing a silent breath from her lips, she made the most of the interruption and carefully composed herself once more. There wasn’t anything for her to feel guilty about at least not where he was concerned.
Bits of gossip could be overheard and her heart wretched a little at the topics of conversation. Hadn’t Taengea been through enough recently? Must some people be so ungracious. Courtiers were notorious for being committed to misunderstanding those in positions of power. Gossip was the toxic lifeblood of society, and she hated it. Lifting the glass to her lips hopefully hiding her distaste. People shuffled into their groups, Basilides drifted over to Princess Gianna and her cousin’s Melina and Imma.
She glanced over to Princess Xene and offered her a tentative smile. After the coronation of King Achilleas, it wasn’t really a surprise that the Princesses’ mother had not made an appearance. Of course, if any of these was wearing on Princess Xene it wasn’t the least bit noticeable. Even as a young girl, the eldest Princess had always been stoic and dignified. The pint-sized Leventi couldn’t help but admire Princess Xene’s ability to hold herself together after so much tragedy had stuck her in such a short time.
Pursing her lips, she’d let herself drift into an inelegant sort of silence. Refocusing her attention on the Princess in their company, “How is your mother feeling, your highness? I had thought she might enjoy some of the herbal tea that my mother enjoys. I was going to bring it today to leave for her but it slipped my mind.” A monarch butterfly, flitted between them as if sensing the feast awaiting it in the garden. “If there is anything I can do for…”
Her words were cut short when she noticed the sudden quietness. Using her free hand, she covered her eyes from the sunlight after she’d opted out of sitting in the shade, much preferring basking in the glowing sun. Scanning the grounds, her eyes fell upon Lady Eoia of Argothia wailing quietly, her shoulder’s softly shaking with each snuffling cry. For a moment, Evangelina could only stare at Lady Eoia. What had happened to set the courtier off? Blinking, her hand fell from her eyes and she quickly slid a glance over to her companions, Queen Theodora and Princess Xene. Had they missed some slight?
Clearing her throat softly, she wasn’t the best in emotional situations but someone should do something to help the poor woman. Obviously she was suffering some sort of mental break. Before she realized what she was doing, she was on her feet and moving through the gathering to side up next to the woman. Softly reaching her arm around the woman, “Oh, there you are Lady Eoia! Come, and sit with us for a moment… I am sure Her Majesty and Princess Xene were just discussing some new plans for their garden and I know yours are so beautiful perhaps you can provide us some insight.” Not really giving Lady Eoia the chance to object, she pressed her into walking towards where she’d been sitting.
Evangelina didn’t hazard a glance around, she could feel several pairs of eyes on her already but what were they supposed to do… leave the poor woman wailing into her handkerchief? Pushing the Lady down in the chair next to Princess Xene, the pint-sized Leventi opted to stand next to the woman to keep an eye on her. Clearing her throat softly at the Princess and the Queen, “Lady Eoia has the most beautiful garden, perhaps she can offer some insight into some new fall variants to add…” Looking over the woman’s head to Princess Xene, the last thing the Queen needed was for people to remember that her first courtier gathering had left people sobbing.
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As the new Queen’s attention was pulled away at the most wretched moment, just as she’d inquired why her cousin had prompted her about Lord Nikos. Forcing a silent breath from her lips, she made the most of the interruption and carefully composed herself once more. There wasn’t anything for her to feel guilty about at least not where he was concerned.
Bits of gossip could be overheard and her heart wretched a little at the topics of conversation. Hadn’t Taengea been through enough recently? Must some people be so ungracious. Courtiers were notorious for being committed to misunderstanding those in positions of power. Gossip was the toxic lifeblood of society, and she hated it. Lifting the glass to her lips hopefully hiding her distaste. People shuffled into their groups, Basilides drifted over to Princess Gianna and her cousin’s Melina and Imma.
She glanced over to Princess Xene and offered her a tentative smile. After the coronation of King Achilleas, it wasn’t really a surprise that the Princesses’ mother had not made an appearance. Of course, if any of these was wearing on Princess Xene it wasn’t the least bit noticeable. Even as a young girl, the eldest Princess had always been stoic and dignified. The pint-sized Leventi couldn’t help but admire Princess Xene’s ability to hold herself together after so much tragedy had stuck her in such a short time.
Pursing her lips, she’d let herself drift into an inelegant sort of silence. Refocusing her attention on the Princess in their company, “How is your mother feeling, your highness? I had thought she might enjoy some of the herbal tea that my mother enjoys. I was going to bring it today to leave for her but it slipped my mind.” A monarch butterfly, flitted between them as if sensing the feast awaiting it in the garden. “If there is anything I can do for…”
Her words were cut short when she noticed the sudden quietness. Using her free hand, she covered her eyes from the sunlight after she’d opted out of sitting in the shade, much preferring basking in the glowing sun. Scanning the grounds, her eyes fell upon Lady Eoia of Argothia wailing quietly, her shoulder’s softly shaking with each snuffling cry. For a moment, Evangelina could only stare at Lady Eoia. What had happened to set the courtier off? Blinking, her hand fell from her eyes and she quickly slid a glance over to her companions, Queen Theodora and Princess Xene. Had they missed some slight?
Clearing her throat softly, she wasn’t the best in emotional situations but someone should do something to help the poor woman. Obviously she was suffering some sort of mental break. Before she realized what she was doing, she was on her feet and moving through the gathering to side up next to the woman. Softly reaching her arm around the woman, “Oh, there you are Lady Eoia! Come, and sit with us for a moment… I am sure Her Majesty and Princess Xene were just discussing some new plans for their garden and I know yours are so beautiful perhaps you can provide us some insight.” Not really giving Lady Eoia the chance to object, she pressed her into walking towards where she’d been sitting.
Evangelina didn’t hazard a glance around, she could feel several pairs of eyes on her already but what were they supposed to do… leave the poor woman wailing into her handkerchief? Pushing the Lady down in the chair next to Princess Xene, the pint-sized Leventi opted to stand next to the woman to keep an eye on her. Clearing her throat softly at the Princess and the Queen, “Lady Eoia has the most beautiful garden, perhaps she can offer some insight into some new fall variants to add…” Looking over the woman’s head to Princess Xene, the last thing the Queen needed was for people to remember that her first courtier gathering had left people sobbing.
As the new Queen’s attention was pulled away at the most wretched moment, just as she’d inquired why her cousin had prompted her about Lord Nikos. Forcing a silent breath from her lips, she made the most of the interruption and carefully composed herself once more. There wasn’t anything for her to feel guilty about at least not where he was concerned.
Bits of gossip could be overheard and her heart wretched a little at the topics of conversation. Hadn’t Taengea been through enough recently? Must some people be so ungracious. Courtiers were notorious for being committed to misunderstanding those in positions of power. Gossip was the toxic lifeblood of society, and she hated it. Lifting the glass to her lips hopefully hiding her distaste. People shuffled into their groups, Basilides drifted over to Princess Gianna and her cousin’s Melina and Imma.
She glanced over to Princess Xene and offered her a tentative smile. After the coronation of King Achilleas, it wasn’t really a surprise that the Princesses’ mother had not made an appearance. Of course, if any of these was wearing on Princess Xene it wasn’t the least bit noticeable. Even as a young girl, the eldest Princess had always been stoic and dignified. The pint-sized Leventi couldn’t help but admire Princess Xene’s ability to hold herself together after so much tragedy had stuck her in such a short time.
Pursing her lips, she’d let herself drift into an inelegant sort of silence. Refocusing her attention on the Princess in their company, “How is your mother feeling, your highness? I had thought she might enjoy some of the herbal tea that my mother enjoys. I was going to bring it today to leave for her but it slipped my mind.” A monarch butterfly, flitted between them as if sensing the feast awaiting it in the garden. “If there is anything I can do for…”
Her words were cut short when she noticed the sudden quietness. Using her free hand, she covered her eyes from the sunlight after she’d opted out of sitting in the shade, much preferring basking in the glowing sun. Scanning the grounds, her eyes fell upon Lady Eoia of Argothia wailing quietly, her shoulder’s softly shaking with each snuffling cry. For a moment, Evangelina could only stare at Lady Eoia. What had happened to set the courtier off? Blinking, her hand fell from her eyes and she quickly slid a glance over to her companions, Queen Theodora and Princess Xene. Had they missed some slight?
Clearing her throat softly, she wasn’t the best in emotional situations but someone should do something to help the poor woman. Obviously she was suffering some sort of mental break. Before she realized what she was doing, she was on her feet and moving through the gathering to side up next to the woman. Softly reaching her arm around the woman, “Oh, there you are Lady Eoia! Come, and sit with us for a moment… I am sure Her Majesty and Princess Xene were just discussing some new plans for their garden and I know yours are so beautiful perhaps you can provide us some insight.” Not really giving Lady Eoia the chance to object, she pressed her into walking towards where she’d been sitting.
Evangelina didn’t hazard a glance around, she could feel several pairs of eyes on her already but what were they supposed to do… leave the poor woman wailing into her handkerchief? Pushing the Lady down in the chair next to Princess Xene, the pint-sized Leventi opted to stand next to the woman to keep an eye on her. Clearing her throat softly at the Princess and the Queen, “Lady Eoia has the most beautiful garden, perhaps she can offer some insight into some new fall variants to add…” Looking over the woman’s head to Princess Xene, the last thing the Queen needed was for people to remember that her first courtier gathering had left people sobbing.
“Thank you, Your Highness,” Imma grinned, setting her glass of juice on the grass before lowering herself onto the empty seat beside the princess. Now she could place her plate on her lap. If she was fortunate, her chiton wouldn’t become stained with grease. Though she missed her mother, she was glad that she was not around to scold her.
There were also other chitons in her room that she could change into if she did stain this one. Her father had given her permission to spend a week with Theo at the palati, so she had brought a lot of clothing and accessories with her. She was thinking of leaving some of them behind because she planned to visit her sister often, even after they returned to Macendia. Court was much more exciting than her island home.
It was only when she picked up her goblet that she noticed Master Basilides sitting on the grass quite close to her. How had she missed him? If Uncle Fotios was here, he would frown at her for overlooking a man, even if he was not high enough in status to wed her. She needed to dazzle every handsome young man she came in contact with, so that they could sing her praises to those who were suitable to become her husband. Imma already knew him, as he was good friends with Nana. He had assisted Theo with her wedding gown too. Had he ever paid any attention to her before, or did he think of her as Nana’s annoying baby sister?
He saw her now, for he bowed his head to her. She returned his greeting with an engaging smile and a nod. Maybe now that her sisters were off in Colchis, he would take note of the youngest Leventi girl. She listened to the exchange between Basildes and Gianna. Apparently, he had ruined one of the princes’ chitons, maybe by spilling wine on it. It was the only thing she could think of and she didn’t know either of them well enough to ask. Imma hoped that she would be able to befriend her new sister-in-law, but their paths had not crossed much since she had come to the palati. So far.
She ate quietly while they conversed. When Master Basildes mentioned a shipment that included unusual pigments for making paints, her fingers paused on the strips of roasted pork that she was pushing off their skewers. Her eyes lit up. How she would love to get her hands on those colors! She would be willing to pay for them, of course. As much as she wanted to speak up and express interest, Imma knew she must wait for the princess to answer first.
Before Basildos finished the end of his sentence, some woman started weeping. The young blonde felt sorry for her but her tears couldn’t have come at a worse time. Her cousin Evie knew the woman and led her over to the group that included Princess Xene and her sister the Queen. Imma was too far away to hear their words and even if she had, their talk of gardening, another hobby of hers, would not have taken her away from the possibility of obtaining new pigments for her painting.
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“Thank you, Your Highness,” Imma grinned, setting her glass of juice on the grass before lowering herself onto the empty seat beside the princess. Now she could place her plate on her lap. If she was fortunate, her chiton wouldn’t become stained with grease. Though she missed her mother, she was glad that she was not around to scold her.
There were also other chitons in her room that she could change into if she did stain this one. Her father had given her permission to spend a week with Theo at the palati, so she had brought a lot of clothing and accessories with her. She was thinking of leaving some of them behind because she planned to visit her sister often, even after they returned to Macendia. Court was much more exciting than her island home.
It was only when she picked up her goblet that she noticed Master Basilides sitting on the grass quite close to her. How had she missed him? If Uncle Fotios was here, he would frown at her for overlooking a man, even if he was not high enough in status to wed her. She needed to dazzle every handsome young man she came in contact with, so that they could sing her praises to those who were suitable to become her husband. Imma already knew him, as he was good friends with Nana. He had assisted Theo with her wedding gown too. Had he ever paid any attention to her before, or did he think of her as Nana’s annoying baby sister?
He saw her now, for he bowed his head to her. She returned his greeting with an engaging smile and a nod. Maybe now that her sisters were off in Colchis, he would take note of the youngest Leventi girl. She listened to the exchange between Basildes and Gianna. Apparently, he had ruined one of the princes’ chitons, maybe by spilling wine on it. It was the only thing she could think of and she didn’t know either of them well enough to ask. Imma hoped that she would be able to befriend her new sister-in-law, but their paths had not crossed much since she had come to the palati. So far.
She ate quietly while they conversed. When Master Basildes mentioned a shipment that included unusual pigments for making paints, her fingers paused on the strips of roasted pork that she was pushing off their skewers. Her eyes lit up. How she would love to get her hands on those colors! She would be willing to pay for them, of course. As much as she wanted to speak up and express interest, Imma knew she must wait for the princess to answer first.
Before Basildos finished the end of his sentence, some woman started weeping. The young blonde felt sorry for her but her tears couldn’t have come at a worse time. Her cousin Evie knew the woman and led her over to the group that included Princess Xene and her sister the Queen. Imma was too far away to hear their words and even if she had, their talk of gardening, another hobby of hers, would not have taken her away from the possibility of obtaining new pigments for her painting.
“Thank you, Your Highness,” Imma grinned, setting her glass of juice on the grass before lowering herself onto the empty seat beside the princess. Now she could place her plate on her lap. If she was fortunate, her chiton wouldn’t become stained with grease. Though she missed her mother, she was glad that she was not around to scold her.
There were also other chitons in her room that she could change into if she did stain this one. Her father had given her permission to spend a week with Theo at the palati, so she had brought a lot of clothing and accessories with her. She was thinking of leaving some of them behind because she planned to visit her sister often, even after they returned to Macendia. Court was much more exciting than her island home.
It was only when she picked up her goblet that she noticed Master Basilides sitting on the grass quite close to her. How had she missed him? If Uncle Fotios was here, he would frown at her for overlooking a man, even if he was not high enough in status to wed her. She needed to dazzle every handsome young man she came in contact with, so that they could sing her praises to those who were suitable to become her husband. Imma already knew him, as he was good friends with Nana. He had assisted Theo with her wedding gown too. Had he ever paid any attention to her before, or did he think of her as Nana’s annoying baby sister?
He saw her now, for he bowed his head to her. She returned his greeting with an engaging smile and a nod. Maybe now that her sisters were off in Colchis, he would take note of the youngest Leventi girl. She listened to the exchange between Basildes and Gianna. Apparently, he had ruined one of the princes’ chitons, maybe by spilling wine on it. It was the only thing she could think of and she didn’t know either of them well enough to ask. Imma hoped that she would be able to befriend her new sister-in-law, but their paths had not crossed much since she had come to the palati. So far.
She ate quietly while they conversed. When Master Basildes mentioned a shipment that included unusual pigments for making paints, her fingers paused on the strips of roasted pork that she was pushing off their skewers. Her eyes lit up. How she would love to get her hands on those colors! She would be willing to pay for them, of course. As much as she wanted to speak up and express interest, Imma knew she must wait for the princess to answer first.
Before Basildos finished the end of his sentence, some woman started weeping. The young blonde felt sorry for her but her tears couldn’t have come at a worse time. Her cousin Evie knew the woman and led her over to the group that included Princess Xene and her sister the Queen. Imma was too far away to hear their words and even if she had, their talk of gardening, another hobby of hers, would not have taken her away from the possibility of obtaining new pigments for her painting.
If there was one thing that Princess Xene was keen not to pay attention to, it was her own feelings on how the world had seemed to progress around her in the last few months. For just a few moments, she had wanted that freedom from feeling her brothers' losses, her father's lacking presence, and her mother slowly, seemingly, losing her mind. It was all far too stressful and mind-numbing to allow too much thought into it. But if there was one thing that Xene was not, it was rude.
She was not going to reject Lady Leventi's question, no matter how much it may have struck a chord with her at that moment. Turning her gaze to Lady Evangelina, Xene smiled quietly, "My mother is feeling somewhat like her old self once more. I pray that such a feeling remains for her," and then there was a short pause and Xene considered the quiet offer to bring her mother an herbal tea. "I think any company at all would make my mother feel more normal," she said lightly, considering Evangelina with a quiet smile. "So much has-"
Xene's own thoughts were pulled away from the thoughts of her mother, much to her delight. Though, she did not like to see other people in the pain that Lady Eoia seemed to be in in that moment. The princess herself was prepared to rise to meet the young lady, but Lady Evangelina beat her to it, so she remained where she had settled. For a moment, her gaze drifted to Basilides, but all she hazarded was a soft smile before her blue gaze turned back in the direction of the weeping lady that had been brought their small group of three to a group of four.
With Lady Eoia beside her, Xene reached out to take the lady's free hand, her brows knit in gentle concern for the woman and her mental state. What had set off such a sudden reaction from the girl? It was a question that was planted firmly in her mind but not one that she was to ask right away. Xene was sure that even Lady Eoia was relieved for the change of subject from her sadness to the delicate gardens that she crafted in her spare time.
"Yes," Xene said lightly, "I was considering helping her majesty outfit the palati gardens with flowers that more suited her tastes for the fall. I'm interested to hear what your opinion might be," the princess offered, motioning to the sprawling gardens around them in a very blatant invitation to suggest and criticize. Xene's gaze darted to Lady Evangelina in a smile that said 'thank you'.
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If there was one thing that Princess Xene was keen not to pay attention to, it was her own feelings on how the world had seemed to progress around her in the last few months. For just a few moments, she had wanted that freedom from feeling her brothers' losses, her father's lacking presence, and her mother slowly, seemingly, losing her mind. It was all far too stressful and mind-numbing to allow too much thought into it. But if there was one thing that Xene was not, it was rude.
She was not going to reject Lady Leventi's question, no matter how much it may have struck a chord with her at that moment. Turning her gaze to Lady Evangelina, Xene smiled quietly, "My mother is feeling somewhat like her old self once more. I pray that such a feeling remains for her," and then there was a short pause and Xene considered the quiet offer to bring her mother an herbal tea. "I think any company at all would make my mother feel more normal," she said lightly, considering Evangelina with a quiet smile. "So much has-"
Xene's own thoughts were pulled away from the thoughts of her mother, much to her delight. Though, she did not like to see other people in the pain that Lady Eoia seemed to be in in that moment. The princess herself was prepared to rise to meet the young lady, but Lady Evangelina beat her to it, so she remained where she had settled. For a moment, her gaze drifted to Basilides, but all she hazarded was a soft smile before her blue gaze turned back in the direction of the weeping lady that had been brought their small group of three to a group of four.
With Lady Eoia beside her, Xene reached out to take the lady's free hand, her brows knit in gentle concern for the woman and her mental state. What had set off such a sudden reaction from the girl? It was a question that was planted firmly in her mind but not one that she was to ask right away. Xene was sure that even Lady Eoia was relieved for the change of subject from her sadness to the delicate gardens that she crafted in her spare time.
"Yes," Xene said lightly, "I was considering helping her majesty outfit the palati gardens with flowers that more suited her tastes for the fall. I'm interested to hear what your opinion might be," the princess offered, motioning to the sprawling gardens around them in a very blatant invitation to suggest and criticize. Xene's gaze darted to Lady Evangelina in a smile that said 'thank you'.
If there was one thing that Princess Xene was keen not to pay attention to, it was her own feelings on how the world had seemed to progress around her in the last few months. For just a few moments, she had wanted that freedom from feeling her brothers' losses, her father's lacking presence, and her mother slowly, seemingly, losing her mind. It was all far too stressful and mind-numbing to allow too much thought into it. But if there was one thing that Xene was not, it was rude.
She was not going to reject Lady Leventi's question, no matter how much it may have struck a chord with her at that moment. Turning her gaze to Lady Evangelina, Xene smiled quietly, "My mother is feeling somewhat like her old self once more. I pray that such a feeling remains for her," and then there was a short pause and Xene considered the quiet offer to bring her mother an herbal tea. "I think any company at all would make my mother feel more normal," she said lightly, considering Evangelina with a quiet smile. "So much has-"
Xene's own thoughts were pulled away from the thoughts of her mother, much to her delight. Though, she did not like to see other people in the pain that Lady Eoia seemed to be in in that moment. The princess herself was prepared to rise to meet the young lady, but Lady Evangelina beat her to it, so she remained where she had settled. For a moment, her gaze drifted to Basilides, but all she hazarded was a soft smile before her blue gaze turned back in the direction of the weeping lady that had been brought their small group of three to a group of four.
With Lady Eoia beside her, Xene reached out to take the lady's free hand, her brows knit in gentle concern for the woman and her mental state. What had set off such a sudden reaction from the girl? It was a question that was planted firmly in her mind but not one that she was to ask right away. Xene was sure that even Lady Eoia was relieved for the change of subject from her sadness to the delicate gardens that she crafted in her spare time.
"Yes," Xene said lightly, "I was considering helping her majesty outfit the palati gardens with flowers that more suited her tastes for the fall. I'm interested to hear what your opinion might be," the princess offered, motioning to the sprawling gardens around them in a very blatant invitation to suggest and criticize. Xene's gaze darted to Lady Evangelina in a smile that said 'thank you'.
Theodora knew to expect vicious whispers when she hosted her first Court session, but she did not know how they would sting.
The Queen, once only a Lady, knew how these Court meetings went. Gods knew she’d been to so many of them in her lifetime that she hadn’t really doubted her ability to run it. However, she had always been among the whispers, not usually the subject. Of course, there were always snide remarks about her House, but she had learned long ago to shrug them off. Such vitriol was always borne of jealousy, and Theo could find it in her heart to pity them. She was born with advantages they were not, and there was bound to be resentment; she understood that. But sometimes, it was as if the women of the Court simply went out of their way just to be cruel…
Born and raised a noblewoman, however, she knew how to control her face, to keep her emotions under control, even in the face of ridicule. As she sat and conversed with Xene and Evangelina, she did her best to shut out the nearby snakes, determined that this would be a pleasant afternoon in spite of them. They could only hurt her as much as she let them, and gods damn it all, but she would not let them.
Instead of further hurtful gossip, however, the event was brought to a standstill by a crying woman, a Lady Eoia whom she only knew with passing familiarity. Part of her was a bit frustrated that the lady should have her outburst here of all places, especially when she wasn’t even the target of any vicious murmurs. But Theodora was not heartless, and when Evie brought the woman over, she offered a warm smile of welcome. It would not do for her to be seen as an ungracious hostess, and nor did she want the crowd to remember her first Court session as an emotional disaster. Better they get it under control now, and even better that she be one of the ones to help.
“Yes, my lady, do come sit with us,” she told Eoia, a gentle and consoling hand reaching out to pat her arm when she was seated. “Please, have a drink, something to eat.”
Waving over a couple nearby servants bearing trays of wine and appetizers, she watched with a smile as the woman took her pick. Theo selected a stuffed grape leaf for herself and sipped at the wine she already held as Evie and Xene spoke to the woman about the gardens.
She seemed somewhat soothed by the talk, even offering a few simple suggestions of beautiful and easily kept flowers. “Thank you, my lady, I’ll be sure to give your ideas to the gardeners,” Theodora said with a grateful look to Xene for her intervention.
Their peace didn’t last long, though, the woman only temporarily appeased by their talk. Her eyes soon filled with tears again, and Theo’s brow furrowed in concern. “Please, my lady, will you tell us what’s wrong? We only want to help.”
Sniffling, Lady Eoia took in the three women and swallowed hard. ‘I apologize, Your Majesty, Your Highness, my lady,’ she began in a trembling voice, nodding to each of them in turn. ‘It’s just… my husband. I… with war on the horizon, I worry. He’s not a young man any more, and yet he insists he will join the fighting. I’m sorry to interrupt your gathering with my fears, but… it has been on my mind for weeks, and after we spoke this morning…’
Tears flowed down her face again, Theodora scooting in a little closer so she might offer further comfort. She understood the woman’s worries well; for when the time came, her own husband would be at the front of them all. “It’s all right, Lady Eoia, we understand. Please, rest assured, we are all doing what we can to bolster our defenses and ensure victory.” Looking toward Xene and Evangelina, her eyes begged for more help as her hands gently patted at the crying woman’s shoulders. “There now, don’t fret. Is there something else we can offer you that might raise your spirits?”
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Theodora knew to expect vicious whispers when she hosted her first Court session, but she did not know how they would sting.
The Queen, once only a Lady, knew how these Court meetings went. Gods knew she’d been to so many of them in her lifetime that she hadn’t really doubted her ability to run it. However, she had always been among the whispers, not usually the subject. Of course, there were always snide remarks about her House, but she had learned long ago to shrug them off. Such vitriol was always borne of jealousy, and Theo could find it in her heart to pity them. She was born with advantages they were not, and there was bound to be resentment; she understood that. But sometimes, it was as if the women of the Court simply went out of their way just to be cruel…
Born and raised a noblewoman, however, she knew how to control her face, to keep her emotions under control, even in the face of ridicule. As she sat and conversed with Xene and Evangelina, she did her best to shut out the nearby snakes, determined that this would be a pleasant afternoon in spite of them. They could only hurt her as much as she let them, and gods damn it all, but she would not let them.
Instead of further hurtful gossip, however, the event was brought to a standstill by a crying woman, a Lady Eoia whom she only knew with passing familiarity. Part of her was a bit frustrated that the lady should have her outburst here of all places, especially when she wasn’t even the target of any vicious murmurs. But Theodora was not heartless, and when Evie brought the woman over, she offered a warm smile of welcome. It would not do for her to be seen as an ungracious hostess, and nor did she want the crowd to remember her first Court session as an emotional disaster. Better they get it under control now, and even better that she be one of the ones to help.
“Yes, my lady, do come sit with us,” she told Eoia, a gentle and consoling hand reaching out to pat her arm when she was seated. “Please, have a drink, something to eat.”
Waving over a couple nearby servants bearing trays of wine and appetizers, she watched with a smile as the woman took her pick. Theo selected a stuffed grape leaf for herself and sipped at the wine she already held as Evie and Xene spoke to the woman about the gardens.
She seemed somewhat soothed by the talk, even offering a few simple suggestions of beautiful and easily kept flowers. “Thank you, my lady, I’ll be sure to give your ideas to the gardeners,” Theodora said with a grateful look to Xene for her intervention.
Their peace didn’t last long, though, the woman only temporarily appeased by their talk. Her eyes soon filled with tears again, and Theo’s brow furrowed in concern. “Please, my lady, will you tell us what’s wrong? We only want to help.”
Sniffling, Lady Eoia took in the three women and swallowed hard. ‘I apologize, Your Majesty, Your Highness, my lady,’ she began in a trembling voice, nodding to each of them in turn. ‘It’s just… my husband. I… with war on the horizon, I worry. He’s not a young man any more, and yet he insists he will join the fighting. I’m sorry to interrupt your gathering with my fears, but… it has been on my mind for weeks, and after we spoke this morning…’
Tears flowed down her face again, Theodora scooting in a little closer so she might offer further comfort. She understood the woman’s worries well; for when the time came, her own husband would be at the front of them all. “It’s all right, Lady Eoia, we understand. Please, rest assured, we are all doing what we can to bolster our defenses and ensure victory.” Looking toward Xene and Evangelina, her eyes begged for more help as her hands gently patted at the crying woman’s shoulders. “There now, don’t fret. Is there something else we can offer you that might raise your spirits?”
Theodora knew to expect vicious whispers when she hosted her first Court session, but she did not know how they would sting.
The Queen, once only a Lady, knew how these Court meetings went. Gods knew she’d been to so many of them in her lifetime that she hadn’t really doubted her ability to run it. However, she had always been among the whispers, not usually the subject. Of course, there were always snide remarks about her House, but she had learned long ago to shrug them off. Such vitriol was always borne of jealousy, and Theo could find it in her heart to pity them. She was born with advantages they were not, and there was bound to be resentment; she understood that. But sometimes, it was as if the women of the Court simply went out of their way just to be cruel…
Born and raised a noblewoman, however, she knew how to control her face, to keep her emotions under control, even in the face of ridicule. As she sat and conversed with Xene and Evangelina, she did her best to shut out the nearby snakes, determined that this would be a pleasant afternoon in spite of them. They could only hurt her as much as she let them, and gods damn it all, but she would not let them.
Instead of further hurtful gossip, however, the event was brought to a standstill by a crying woman, a Lady Eoia whom she only knew with passing familiarity. Part of her was a bit frustrated that the lady should have her outburst here of all places, especially when she wasn’t even the target of any vicious murmurs. But Theodora was not heartless, and when Evie brought the woman over, she offered a warm smile of welcome. It would not do for her to be seen as an ungracious hostess, and nor did she want the crowd to remember her first Court session as an emotional disaster. Better they get it under control now, and even better that she be one of the ones to help.
“Yes, my lady, do come sit with us,” she told Eoia, a gentle and consoling hand reaching out to pat her arm when she was seated. “Please, have a drink, something to eat.”
Waving over a couple nearby servants bearing trays of wine and appetizers, she watched with a smile as the woman took her pick. Theo selected a stuffed grape leaf for herself and sipped at the wine she already held as Evie and Xene spoke to the woman about the gardens.
She seemed somewhat soothed by the talk, even offering a few simple suggestions of beautiful and easily kept flowers. “Thank you, my lady, I’ll be sure to give your ideas to the gardeners,” Theodora said with a grateful look to Xene for her intervention.
Their peace didn’t last long, though, the woman only temporarily appeased by their talk. Her eyes soon filled with tears again, and Theo’s brow furrowed in concern. “Please, my lady, will you tell us what’s wrong? We only want to help.”
Sniffling, Lady Eoia took in the three women and swallowed hard. ‘I apologize, Your Majesty, Your Highness, my lady,’ she began in a trembling voice, nodding to each of them in turn. ‘It’s just… my husband. I… with war on the horizon, I worry. He’s not a young man any more, and yet he insists he will join the fighting. I’m sorry to interrupt your gathering with my fears, but… it has been on my mind for weeks, and after we spoke this morning…’
Tears flowed down her face again, Theodora scooting in a little closer so she might offer further comfort. She understood the woman’s worries well; for when the time came, her own husband would be at the front of them all. “It’s all right, Lady Eoia, we understand. Please, rest assured, we are all doing what we can to bolster our defenses and ensure victory.” Looking toward Xene and Evangelina, her eyes begged for more help as her hands gently patted at the crying woman’s shoulders. “There now, don’t fret. Is there something else we can offer you that might raise your spirits?”
The sun filtered down onto her cheeks, she’d be just a little burnt tomorrow but it was worth it for that comforting warmth. Her heart constricted a little in her chest as she glanced sideways to Lady Eoia. She’d done what she’d done by bringing the lady over for many reasons. Partly because her heart went out to the woman, but mostly because of the opportunities it would give both Princess Xene and the newly appointed, Queen Theodora an opportunity to shine amongst the public. People didn’t forget incidences like the one Lady Eoia had created by bursting into sobs. They also wouldn’t forget a kind and benevolent Princess and Queen who had offered comfort to a distraught lady. It was a perfect example of being given sour grapes and turning them into wine.
She’d tried to draw Lady Eoia into position to discuss something within her comfort zone. Whatever troubles the lady had, they were no business of hers. If she’d been in the hysterical woman’s position she’d have wanted nothing more than a distraction from the pains of her heart. Seeing the quick look from Xene, Evangelina reached for a glass of wine and lifted her eyebrows just fractionally to the princess. Perhaps that was one crisis averted.
As the conversation drifted to gardening, the pint-sized Leventi focused more on her wine and less on what was being said around her. Gardening was a relaxing hobby, but she’d not found a great deal of time to really throw herself into it. There never seemed to be enough hours in the day… Or rather, maybe she’d just have rather spent her time with the horses or going over the breeding plans or… the list went on and on of things with the horses that she’d rather have been doing than gardening. Somewhere along the way, gardening had become that hobby that lingered there in the back of her mind. You know the one. It was something she wanted to do but didn’t want to do it bad enough to schedule the time to do it. It was the hobby that she’d pick up as soon as she got caught up on everything else she needed to do. It was her ‘someday hobby’.
Offering the occasional agreement or disagreement when needed, she didn’t miss how the conversation started to naturally lull and soon Lady Eoia was tearing up again. Evie’s dark eyes drew over to Theo’s and then to Xene’s. It appeared Lady Eoia was once again becoming distressed.
‘Please, my lady, will you tell us what’s wrong? We only want to help.’ Her gaze dropped to her wine at the Queen’s words. This was turning out to be about as fun as a barrel of monkeys, she thought dryly. There was a significant need for more wine. ‘It’s just… my husband. I… with war on the horizon, I worry. He’s not a young man any more, and yet he insists he will join the fighting. I’m sorry to interrupt your gathering with my fears, but… it has been on my mind for weeks, and after we spoke this morning…’
She sucked a breath in. This war had touched all of them in some way or another. That was something it was easy to forget as they’d basked in the Taengean sun. Tilting the glass of wine, she stared down at the red liquid. Red like blood. ‘It’s all right, Lady Eoia, we understand. Please, rest assured, we are all doing what we can to bolster our defenses and ensure victory.’ Stopping her mind from delving down that path, Evangelina had lost her taste for the red liquid and sat it down on a nearby table. ‘There now, don’t fret. Is there something else we can offer you that might raise your spirits?’
Looking up from beneath her lashes, her serious dark gaze lingered momentarily on Theodora’s and then dropped again as she took a deep breath and waited to hear if there was something that could be done to raise Lady Eoia’s spirits.
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The sun filtered down onto her cheeks, she’d be just a little burnt tomorrow but it was worth it for that comforting warmth. Her heart constricted a little in her chest as she glanced sideways to Lady Eoia. She’d done what she’d done by bringing the lady over for many reasons. Partly because her heart went out to the woman, but mostly because of the opportunities it would give both Princess Xene and the newly appointed, Queen Theodora an opportunity to shine amongst the public. People didn’t forget incidences like the one Lady Eoia had created by bursting into sobs. They also wouldn’t forget a kind and benevolent Princess and Queen who had offered comfort to a distraught lady. It was a perfect example of being given sour grapes and turning them into wine.
She’d tried to draw Lady Eoia into position to discuss something within her comfort zone. Whatever troubles the lady had, they were no business of hers. If she’d been in the hysterical woman’s position she’d have wanted nothing more than a distraction from the pains of her heart. Seeing the quick look from Xene, Evangelina reached for a glass of wine and lifted her eyebrows just fractionally to the princess. Perhaps that was one crisis averted.
As the conversation drifted to gardening, the pint-sized Leventi focused more on her wine and less on what was being said around her. Gardening was a relaxing hobby, but she’d not found a great deal of time to really throw herself into it. There never seemed to be enough hours in the day… Or rather, maybe she’d just have rather spent her time with the horses or going over the breeding plans or… the list went on and on of things with the horses that she’d rather have been doing than gardening. Somewhere along the way, gardening had become that hobby that lingered there in the back of her mind. You know the one. It was something she wanted to do but didn’t want to do it bad enough to schedule the time to do it. It was the hobby that she’d pick up as soon as she got caught up on everything else she needed to do. It was her ‘someday hobby’.
Offering the occasional agreement or disagreement when needed, she didn’t miss how the conversation started to naturally lull and soon Lady Eoia was tearing up again. Evie’s dark eyes drew over to Theo’s and then to Xene’s. It appeared Lady Eoia was once again becoming distressed.
‘Please, my lady, will you tell us what’s wrong? We only want to help.’ Her gaze dropped to her wine at the Queen’s words. This was turning out to be about as fun as a barrel of monkeys, she thought dryly. There was a significant need for more wine. ‘It’s just… my husband. I… with war on the horizon, I worry. He’s not a young man any more, and yet he insists he will join the fighting. I’m sorry to interrupt your gathering with my fears, but… it has been on my mind for weeks, and after we spoke this morning…’
She sucked a breath in. This war had touched all of them in some way or another. That was something it was easy to forget as they’d basked in the Taengean sun. Tilting the glass of wine, she stared down at the red liquid. Red like blood. ‘It’s all right, Lady Eoia, we understand. Please, rest assured, we are all doing what we can to bolster our defenses and ensure victory.’ Stopping her mind from delving down that path, Evangelina had lost her taste for the red liquid and sat it down on a nearby table. ‘There now, don’t fret. Is there something else we can offer you that might raise your spirits?’
Looking up from beneath her lashes, her serious dark gaze lingered momentarily on Theodora’s and then dropped again as she took a deep breath and waited to hear if there was something that could be done to raise Lady Eoia’s spirits.
The sun filtered down onto her cheeks, she’d be just a little burnt tomorrow but it was worth it for that comforting warmth. Her heart constricted a little in her chest as she glanced sideways to Lady Eoia. She’d done what she’d done by bringing the lady over for many reasons. Partly because her heart went out to the woman, but mostly because of the opportunities it would give both Princess Xene and the newly appointed, Queen Theodora an opportunity to shine amongst the public. People didn’t forget incidences like the one Lady Eoia had created by bursting into sobs. They also wouldn’t forget a kind and benevolent Princess and Queen who had offered comfort to a distraught lady. It was a perfect example of being given sour grapes and turning them into wine.
She’d tried to draw Lady Eoia into position to discuss something within her comfort zone. Whatever troubles the lady had, they were no business of hers. If she’d been in the hysterical woman’s position she’d have wanted nothing more than a distraction from the pains of her heart. Seeing the quick look from Xene, Evangelina reached for a glass of wine and lifted her eyebrows just fractionally to the princess. Perhaps that was one crisis averted.
As the conversation drifted to gardening, the pint-sized Leventi focused more on her wine and less on what was being said around her. Gardening was a relaxing hobby, but she’d not found a great deal of time to really throw herself into it. There never seemed to be enough hours in the day… Or rather, maybe she’d just have rather spent her time with the horses or going over the breeding plans or… the list went on and on of things with the horses that she’d rather have been doing than gardening. Somewhere along the way, gardening had become that hobby that lingered there in the back of her mind. You know the one. It was something she wanted to do but didn’t want to do it bad enough to schedule the time to do it. It was the hobby that she’d pick up as soon as she got caught up on everything else she needed to do. It was her ‘someday hobby’.
Offering the occasional agreement or disagreement when needed, she didn’t miss how the conversation started to naturally lull and soon Lady Eoia was tearing up again. Evie’s dark eyes drew over to Theo’s and then to Xene’s. It appeared Lady Eoia was once again becoming distressed.
‘Please, my lady, will you tell us what’s wrong? We only want to help.’ Her gaze dropped to her wine at the Queen’s words. This was turning out to be about as fun as a barrel of monkeys, she thought dryly. There was a significant need for more wine. ‘It’s just… my husband. I… with war on the horizon, I worry. He’s not a young man any more, and yet he insists he will join the fighting. I’m sorry to interrupt your gathering with my fears, but… it has been on my mind for weeks, and after we spoke this morning…’
She sucked a breath in. This war had touched all of them in some way or another. That was something it was easy to forget as they’d basked in the Taengean sun. Tilting the glass of wine, she stared down at the red liquid. Red like blood. ‘It’s all right, Lady Eoia, we understand. Please, rest assured, we are all doing what we can to bolster our defenses and ensure victory.’ Stopping her mind from delving down that path, Evangelina had lost her taste for the red liquid and sat it down on a nearby table. ‘There now, don’t fret. Is there something else we can offer you that might raise your spirits?’
Looking up from beneath her lashes, her serious dark gaze lingered momentarily on Theodora’s and then dropped again as she took a deep breath and waited to hear if there was something that could be done to raise Lady Eoia’s spirits.
Basilides watched nearly silently as crying noblewoman sought comfort with Princess Xene & the Queen, his eyes flitting among their company to note any expressions. Just as soon as the moment began, the moment passed, and Basilides' attention was drawn to Princess Gianna, as she was finally allowed to offer a response.
"Of course, Master Basilides," she offered, kindly, a slight spark behind her eye, "I do not think anyone present would be opposed to having a first glimpse at such treasures, would they?" There was a quiet murmur of approval from a few of the nobles nearby who he did not know, and he nodded with a smile in response.
"Excellent, then we shall have to set a date for it," he confirmed, making a mental note to do so, especially to mark down the idea in ink before it simply became another string of words blithely released into the air, never to be touched upon again.
At that moment, a handmaiden murmured quietly into the Princess' ear and after quietly excusing herself from the company, Princess Gianna left in the tow of her handmaiden. No one seemed alarmed, but it did seem to dismiss the gaggle of unknown noblewomen around them, leaving him alone in the company of Lady Imma, to whom he smiled.
The young woman was easily the least-familiar to him of Lady Evelli's daughters, and Basilides found himself at an age where it was just as easy to remember her when she was still considered a girl instead of a woman. Yet, time kept moving along, and it was lovely to see her blending so well into the company at court, even if she did live true to the reputation of being quite quiet. Then again, anyone would be considered so if compared to her closest sibling in age, Lady Nana.
"So," Bas started, hoping to open up a bit more conversation with the quietest of Lady Evelli's daughters, "I doubt the other ladies will hold so much of an interest in the pigments as you will, my lady. Perhaps, I could bring them by the estate when they arrive? Just...don't tell the princess. It will be our secret."
It was what she was most interested in, he knew, and he doubted that Princess Gianna or Xene would be offended. After all, there was no secret that with the Leventi being one of his family's greatest financial patrons and most frequent clients, so it would surprise no one if that was his first stop with the new items.
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Basilides watched nearly silently as crying noblewoman sought comfort with Princess Xene & the Queen, his eyes flitting among their company to note any expressions. Just as soon as the moment began, the moment passed, and Basilides' attention was drawn to Princess Gianna, as she was finally allowed to offer a response.
"Of course, Master Basilides," she offered, kindly, a slight spark behind her eye, "I do not think anyone present would be opposed to having a first glimpse at such treasures, would they?" There was a quiet murmur of approval from a few of the nobles nearby who he did not know, and he nodded with a smile in response.
"Excellent, then we shall have to set a date for it," he confirmed, making a mental note to do so, especially to mark down the idea in ink before it simply became another string of words blithely released into the air, never to be touched upon again.
At that moment, a handmaiden murmured quietly into the Princess' ear and after quietly excusing herself from the company, Princess Gianna left in the tow of her handmaiden. No one seemed alarmed, but it did seem to dismiss the gaggle of unknown noblewomen around them, leaving him alone in the company of Lady Imma, to whom he smiled.
The young woman was easily the least-familiar to him of Lady Evelli's daughters, and Basilides found himself at an age where it was just as easy to remember her when she was still considered a girl instead of a woman. Yet, time kept moving along, and it was lovely to see her blending so well into the company at court, even if she did live true to the reputation of being quite quiet. Then again, anyone would be considered so if compared to her closest sibling in age, Lady Nana.
"So," Bas started, hoping to open up a bit more conversation with the quietest of Lady Evelli's daughters, "I doubt the other ladies will hold so much of an interest in the pigments as you will, my lady. Perhaps, I could bring them by the estate when they arrive? Just...don't tell the princess. It will be our secret."
It was what she was most interested in, he knew, and he doubted that Princess Gianna or Xene would be offended. After all, there was no secret that with the Leventi being one of his family's greatest financial patrons and most frequent clients, so it would surprise no one if that was his first stop with the new items.
Basilides watched nearly silently as crying noblewoman sought comfort with Princess Xene & the Queen, his eyes flitting among their company to note any expressions. Just as soon as the moment began, the moment passed, and Basilides' attention was drawn to Princess Gianna, as she was finally allowed to offer a response.
"Of course, Master Basilides," she offered, kindly, a slight spark behind her eye, "I do not think anyone present would be opposed to having a first glimpse at such treasures, would they?" There was a quiet murmur of approval from a few of the nobles nearby who he did not know, and he nodded with a smile in response.
"Excellent, then we shall have to set a date for it," he confirmed, making a mental note to do so, especially to mark down the idea in ink before it simply became another string of words blithely released into the air, never to be touched upon again.
At that moment, a handmaiden murmured quietly into the Princess' ear and after quietly excusing herself from the company, Princess Gianna left in the tow of her handmaiden. No one seemed alarmed, but it did seem to dismiss the gaggle of unknown noblewomen around them, leaving him alone in the company of Lady Imma, to whom he smiled.
The young woman was easily the least-familiar to him of Lady Evelli's daughters, and Basilides found himself at an age where it was just as easy to remember her when she was still considered a girl instead of a woman. Yet, time kept moving along, and it was lovely to see her blending so well into the company at court, even if she did live true to the reputation of being quite quiet. Then again, anyone would be considered so if compared to her closest sibling in age, Lady Nana.
"So," Bas started, hoping to open up a bit more conversation with the quietest of Lady Evelli's daughters, "I doubt the other ladies will hold so much of an interest in the pigments as you will, my lady. Perhaps, I could bring them by the estate when they arrive? Just...don't tell the princess. It will be our secret."
It was what she was most interested in, he knew, and he doubted that Princess Gianna or Xene would be offended. After all, there was no secret that with the Leventi being one of his family's greatest financial patrons and most frequent clients, so it would surprise no one if that was his first stop with the new items.
It started out well. Melina felt confident. She was getting compliments. People were looking at her. For a moment, Melina felt like her cousins. Beautiful, smart, charming…
Oh, how fleeting that moment was.
People’s attention changed. It went this way and that. Gossip was here, gossip was there, oh look Lady Eoia burst into tears. Melina, once again, fell into the background. And once there, the doubt began to creep in.
Maybe the necklace I chose was tacky? Melina had thought it was beautiful, but what did she know about beauty? Should she take it off? No, that would be too obvious. What if it wasn’t her necklace? What if it was her shoes? Or her makeup? Or her hair? Or any number of things that Melina could not see. Did she have something in her teeth?
Or was it her personality?
Melina had opened her mouth several times to participate in the various conversations, but each time she lost confidence and returned to her silence. Instead, she remained by Imma, silently watching all the events unfold behind her nervous brown eyes.
If she could just get herself to say something she wouldn’t be relegated to the background again. But the problem was, Melina… honestly had nothing interesting to say. She had no desire to help a crying woman, and would probably only have awkwardly patted her shoulder and inwardly panicked. She didn’t have the wit, humor, or charm as her family members did. And now, as Basilides spoke to Lady Imma about pigments, something Melina knew very little about… she still had nothing to supply.
But she had to try right?
“I had read in a book once that purple dye comes from the glands of snails. In fact, it takes thousands of snails to make our purple dyes.” Yes! Melina did it! She spoke! And the fact was incredibly interesting. When she discovered that colors came from gross creatures like snails Melina was fascinated by what else came from gross objects. “Red dye comes from tiny little insects that almost look like pustules.”
Melina knew she should be grossed out by the facts, but they interested her instead. Specifically, the purple dye, which was why it was her favorite color. Indigo too was beautiful, but purple made her feel wealthy. (Which, to be fair, she was - very much so.)
Wait- she should think this was gross. Which meant… other people probably thought this was gross. Melina felt her stomach drop and slowly a hand rose and covered her lips. Oops. She did it again, didn’t she? She made a fool of herself. She tried too hard. Melina was Icarus, flying too close to the sun. “Not that your pigments and dyes are made out of creatures like that. And even if they were, no one would be able to tell. They are beautiful. Or.. I mean I’m sure they are beautiful. And well worth the drachmae.” Time to return to silence now. Yes, silence sounded very good.
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It started out well. Melina felt confident. She was getting compliments. People were looking at her. For a moment, Melina felt like her cousins. Beautiful, smart, charming…
Oh, how fleeting that moment was.
People’s attention changed. It went this way and that. Gossip was here, gossip was there, oh look Lady Eoia burst into tears. Melina, once again, fell into the background. And once there, the doubt began to creep in.
Maybe the necklace I chose was tacky? Melina had thought it was beautiful, but what did she know about beauty? Should she take it off? No, that would be too obvious. What if it wasn’t her necklace? What if it was her shoes? Or her makeup? Or her hair? Or any number of things that Melina could not see. Did she have something in her teeth?
Or was it her personality?
Melina had opened her mouth several times to participate in the various conversations, but each time she lost confidence and returned to her silence. Instead, she remained by Imma, silently watching all the events unfold behind her nervous brown eyes.
If she could just get herself to say something she wouldn’t be relegated to the background again. But the problem was, Melina… honestly had nothing interesting to say. She had no desire to help a crying woman, and would probably only have awkwardly patted her shoulder and inwardly panicked. She didn’t have the wit, humor, or charm as her family members did. And now, as Basilides spoke to Lady Imma about pigments, something Melina knew very little about… she still had nothing to supply.
But she had to try right?
“I had read in a book once that purple dye comes from the glands of snails. In fact, it takes thousands of snails to make our purple dyes.” Yes! Melina did it! She spoke! And the fact was incredibly interesting. When she discovered that colors came from gross creatures like snails Melina was fascinated by what else came from gross objects. “Red dye comes from tiny little insects that almost look like pustules.”
Melina knew she should be grossed out by the facts, but they interested her instead. Specifically, the purple dye, which was why it was her favorite color. Indigo too was beautiful, but purple made her feel wealthy. (Which, to be fair, she was - very much so.)
Wait- she should think this was gross. Which meant… other people probably thought this was gross. Melina felt her stomach drop and slowly a hand rose and covered her lips. Oops. She did it again, didn’t she? She made a fool of herself. She tried too hard. Melina was Icarus, flying too close to the sun. “Not that your pigments and dyes are made out of creatures like that. And even if they were, no one would be able to tell. They are beautiful. Or.. I mean I’m sure they are beautiful. And well worth the drachmae.” Time to return to silence now. Yes, silence sounded very good.
It started out well. Melina felt confident. She was getting compliments. People were looking at her. For a moment, Melina felt like her cousins. Beautiful, smart, charming…
Oh, how fleeting that moment was.
People’s attention changed. It went this way and that. Gossip was here, gossip was there, oh look Lady Eoia burst into tears. Melina, once again, fell into the background. And once there, the doubt began to creep in.
Maybe the necklace I chose was tacky? Melina had thought it was beautiful, but what did she know about beauty? Should she take it off? No, that would be too obvious. What if it wasn’t her necklace? What if it was her shoes? Or her makeup? Or her hair? Or any number of things that Melina could not see. Did she have something in her teeth?
Or was it her personality?
Melina had opened her mouth several times to participate in the various conversations, but each time she lost confidence and returned to her silence. Instead, she remained by Imma, silently watching all the events unfold behind her nervous brown eyes.
If she could just get herself to say something she wouldn’t be relegated to the background again. But the problem was, Melina… honestly had nothing interesting to say. She had no desire to help a crying woman, and would probably only have awkwardly patted her shoulder and inwardly panicked. She didn’t have the wit, humor, or charm as her family members did. And now, as Basilides spoke to Lady Imma about pigments, something Melina knew very little about… she still had nothing to supply.
But she had to try right?
“I had read in a book once that purple dye comes from the glands of snails. In fact, it takes thousands of snails to make our purple dyes.” Yes! Melina did it! She spoke! And the fact was incredibly interesting. When she discovered that colors came from gross creatures like snails Melina was fascinated by what else came from gross objects. “Red dye comes from tiny little insects that almost look like pustules.”
Melina knew she should be grossed out by the facts, but they interested her instead. Specifically, the purple dye, which was why it was her favorite color. Indigo too was beautiful, but purple made her feel wealthy. (Which, to be fair, she was - very much so.)
Wait- she should think this was gross. Which meant… other people probably thought this was gross. Melina felt her stomach drop and slowly a hand rose and covered her lips. Oops. She did it again, didn’t she? She made a fool of herself. She tried too hard. Melina was Icarus, flying too close to the sun. “Not that your pigments and dyes are made out of creatures like that. And even if they were, no one would be able to tell. They are beautiful. Or.. I mean I’m sure they are beautiful. And well worth the drachmae.” Time to return to silence now. Yes, silence sounded very good.
This was miserable, Theodora had to admit. She hadn’t exactly planned to spend her first Court session as Queen placating a sobbing woman. She knew Evangelina and Xene were doing their best to help, but ultimately this was her gathering, and she needed to be the one to resolve the issues that arose. If she couldn’t handle such a simple task, what use would she be as a ruler? Would she just be compared to her sister and those that came before her? Surely, Olympia didn’t have such issues in her short duration as queen.
She could figure this out. This would not be remembered as a disaster.
Lady Eoia looked at her with helpless eyes as Theodora offered further help, and the woman simply shook her head. ‘I… I don’t think there is much else to be done,’ she said in a shaky voice, teary-eyed and somber. ‘Forgive me, Your Majesty, I… I should not have made a scene. I should have just stayed home. Please, I think I should just go.’ Rising to her feet, the woman curtsied stiffly in farewell and made to turn away, the Queen holding up her hand to stop her.
“My lady, you don’t have to go, please, we’ll be happy to talk to you…” The words seemed to fall on deaf ears, however, Eoia hastening off in the other direction without much mind to where she was stepping. Theodora suppressed a sigh of frustration and turned helplessly to her cousins, unsure if she should get up and follow her or simply let it lie. Which way would cause even less of a scene than they already had?
While she deliberated, the woman in question was bustling off with her face covered, moving so quickly that she didn’t even seem to notice when she knocked right into a servant carrying a tray of wine and finger foods. The Queen rose to her feet, about to call out, but it was too late, the servant stumbling forward and dropping the entire tray directly into the laps of Imma, Melina, and Basilides.
Her hands rose to her mouth in horror with a sharp gasp, rushing over to assist with the mess. Well, if Eoia’s departure hadn’t drawn enough attention, this surely would; she could feel the eyes of at least a dozen others boring into her back as she crouched down to start picking up shattered glass and crumbled bits of food.
‘Your Majesty, don’t bother, we’ll handle this,’ the servant who had dropped the tray said, the poor man’s face a bright shade of red. Several other servants rushed over to help, Theodora stepping back with a sheepish look of guilt. Though she hadn’t done this, she couldn’t help but feel a measure of responsibility for it. If only she had comforted the crying woman better…
“Are you all right?” she asked her younger sister and her cousin, gaze flickering between Imma and Melina as wine started to soak through their chitons. That same concern was turned on Basilides, who hadn’t fared much better, Theodora uselessly wringing her hands.
Well, this was all just shaping up perfectly, now wasn’t it? If the gods were kind, they would let her start this day over and forget any of this had ever happened.
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This was miserable, Theodora had to admit. She hadn’t exactly planned to spend her first Court session as Queen placating a sobbing woman. She knew Evangelina and Xene were doing their best to help, but ultimately this was her gathering, and she needed to be the one to resolve the issues that arose. If she couldn’t handle such a simple task, what use would she be as a ruler? Would she just be compared to her sister and those that came before her? Surely, Olympia didn’t have such issues in her short duration as queen.
She could figure this out. This would not be remembered as a disaster.
Lady Eoia looked at her with helpless eyes as Theodora offered further help, and the woman simply shook her head. ‘I… I don’t think there is much else to be done,’ she said in a shaky voice, teary-eyed and somber. ‘Forgive me, Your Majesty, I… I should not have made a scene. I should have just stayed home. Please, I think I should just go.’ Rising to her feet, the woman curtsied stiffly in farewell and made to turn away, the Queen holding up her hand to stop her.
“My lady, you don’t have to go, please, we’ll be happy to talk to you…” The words seemed to fall on deaf ears, however, Eoia hastening off in the other direction without much mind to where she was stepping. Theodora suppressed a sigh of frustration and turned helplessly to her cousins, unsure if she should get up and follow her or simply let it lie. Which way would cause even less of a scene than they already had?
While she deliberated, the woman in question was bustling off with her face covered, moving so quickly that she didn’t even seem to notice when she knocked right into a servant carrying a tray of wine and finger foods. The Queen rose to her feet, about to call out, but it was too late, the servant stumbling forward and dropping the entire tray directly into the laps of Imma, Melina, and Basilides.
Her hands rose to her mouth in horror with a sharp gasp, rushing over to assist with the mess. Well, if Eoia’s departure hadn’t drawn enough attention, this surely would; she could feel the eyes of at least a dozen others boring into her back as she crouched down to start picking up shattered glass and crumbled bits of food.
‘Your Majesty, don’t bother, we’ll handle this,’ the servant who had dropped the tray said, the poor man’s face a bright shade of red. Several other servants rushed over to help, Theodora stepping back with a sheepish look of guilt. Though she hadn’t done this, she couldn’t help but feel a measure of responsibility for it. If only she had comforted the crying woman better…
“Are you all right?” she asked her younger sister and her cousin, gaze flickering between Imma and Melina as wine started to soak through their chitons. That same concern was turned on Basilides, who hadn’t fared much better, Theodora uselessly wringing her hands.
Well, this was all just shaping up perfectly, now wasn’t it? If the gods were kind, they would let her start this day over and forget any of this had ever happened.
This was miserable, Theodora had to admit. She hadn’t exactly planned to spend her first Court session as Queen placating a sobbing woman. She knew Evangelina and Xene were doing their best to help, but ultimately this was her gathering, and she needed to be the one to resolve the issues that arose. If she couldn’t handle such a simple task, what use would she be as a ruler? Would she just be compared to her sister and those that came before her? Surely, Olympia didn’t have such issues in her short duration as queen.
She could figure this out. This would not be remembered as a disaster.
Lady Eoia looked at her with helpless eyes as Theodora offered further help, and the woman simply shook her head. ‘I… I don’t think there is much else to be done,’ she said in a shaky voice, teary-eyed and somber. ‘Forgive me, Your Majesty, I… I should not have made a scene. I should have just stayed home. Please, I think I should just go.’ Rising to her feet, the woman curtsied stiffly in farewell and made to turn away, the Queen holding up her hand to stop her.
“My lady, you don’t have to go, please, we’ll be happy to talk to you…” The words seemed to fall on deaf ears, however, Eoia hastening off in the other direction without much mind to where she was stepping. Theodora suppressed a sigh of frustration and turned helplessly to her cousins, unsure if she should get up and follow her or simply let it lie. Which way would cause even less of a scene than they already had?
While she deliberated, the woman in question was bustling off with her face covered, moving so quickly that she didn’t even seem to notice when she knocked right into a servant carrying a tray of wine and finger foods. The Queen rose to her feet, about to call out, but it was too late, the servant stumbling forward and dropping the entire tray directly into the laps of Imma, Melina, and Basilides.
Her hands rose to her mouth in horror with a sharp gasp, rushing over to assist with the mess. Well, if Eoia’s departure hadn’t drawn enough attention, this surely would; she could feel the eyes of at least a dozen others boring into her back as she crouched down to start picking up shattered glass and crumbled bits of food.
‘Your Majesty, don’t bother, we’ll handle this,’ the servant who had dropped the tray said, the poor man’s face a bright shade of red. Several other servants rushed over to help, Theodora stepping back with a sheepish look of guilt. Though she hadn’t done this, she couldn’t help but feel a measure of responsibility for it. If only she had comforted the crying woman better…
“Are you all right?” she asked her younger sister and her cousin, gaze flickering between Imma and Melina as wine started to soak through their chitons. That same concern was turned on Basilides, who hadn’t fared much better, Theodora uselessly wringing her hands.
Well, this was all just shaping up perfectly, now wasn’t it? If the gods were kind, they would let her start this day over and forget any of this had ever happened.
The princess was called away, leaving Imma in the company of Master Basilides and Melina. Her cousin was even quieter than she was and seemed content to listen as the other two conversed. Her proclivity for sketching and painting was no secret, and if Master Basildes spent much time in the palati since Theodora had become Queen, he had likely seen her easel set up in the gardens. He was quite handsome, she thought.
“Yes, please,” she replied, a soft blush flowering across her cheeks. “I would love to have first choice and I promise that I shall tell nobody.” She looked pointedly at Melina, silently imploring her to do the same. Not that she thought Princess Gianna would be the least bit interested. To her knowledge, she didn’t paint. She was probably more interested in the fabrics. I shall offer to paint her portrait after I get the new pigments.
Golden eyebrows quirked upward when Melina broke her silence, explaining what Imma already knew … what pigments were made of. “Yes, you’re right.” The younger Leventi smiled, hoping to encourage her cousin to speak more. It was funny. She was insecure herself, but in Melina’s presence she always felt confident.
Melina tried to correct what she thought was a blunder, claiming that Basildes pigments weren’t made from insects and snails and that they were certain to be beautiful.
“Red paint is often made of minerals, but I think all purple paint comes from snails. There is nothing wrong with that. The snails are not harmed. Only their shells are used. I made some not long ago from the snails I found in the sea. Purple is difficult to find at the market.”
Her smile turned to Basildes. “I will buy all the purple pigment your brother brings. The last time I collected snails, I hurt my foot.” She decided not to mention that the King had joined her and had seen her home safely.
"What are … AHHH!” Before Imma could finish her sentence, a flood of wine, food, and broken glass fell in her lap. Her two companions had fared no better. The culprit was apparently a clumsy servant who tried to clean up the mess. Theo rushed over too and asked if they were all right.
The young blonde felt a sharp stabbing pain and looked down in horror. Several large shards of glass were embedded in her hands. “I .. I don’t think so,” she whispered, holding them both up. Blood poured from the wounds and ran down her wrists and arms in spiraling ruby rivulets. “I think I ...” The world started spinning around her and her vision began to dim. Her last thought before she lost consciousness was Why is the world revolving around me? I thought it was supposed to revolve around Nana.
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The princess was called away, leaving Imma in the company of Master Basilides and Melina. Her cousin was even quieter than she was and seemed content to listen as the other two conversed. Her proclivity for sketching and painting was no secret, and if Master Basildes spent much time in the palati since Theodora had become Queen, he had likely seen her easel set up in the gardens. He was quite handsome, she thought.
“Yes, please,” she replied, a soft blush flowering across her cheeks. “I would love to have first choice and I promise that I shall tell nobody.” She looked pointedly at Melina, silently imploring her to do the same. Not that she thought Princess Gianna would be the least bit interested. To her knowledge, she didn’t paint. She was probably more interested in the fabrics. I shall offer to paint her portrait after I get the new pigments.
Golden eyebrows quirked upward when Melina broke her silence, explaining what Imma already knew … what pigments were made of. “Yes, you’re right.” The younger Leventi smiled, hoping to encourage her cousin to speak more. It was funny. She was insecure herself, but in Melina’s presence she always felt confident.
Melina tried to correct what she thought was a blunder, claiming that Basildes pigments weren’t made from insects and snails and that they were certain to be beautiful.
“Red paint is often made of minerals, but I think all purple paint comes from snails. There is nothing wrong with that. The snails are not harmed. Only their shells are used. I made some not long ago from the snails I found in the sea. Purple is difficult to find at the market.”
Her smile turned to Basildes. “I will buy all the purple pigment your brother brings. The last time I collected snails, I hurt my foot.” She decided not to mention that the King had joined her and had seen her home safely.
"What are … AHHH!” Before Imma could finish her sentence, a flood of wine, food, and broken glass fell in her lap. Her two companions had fared no better. The culprit was apparently a clumsy servant who tried to clean up the mess. Theo rushed over too and asked if they were all right.
The young blonde felt a sharp stabbing pain and looked down in horror. Several large shards of glass were embedded in her hands. “I .. I don’t think so,” she whispered, holding them both up. Blood poured from the wounds and ran down her wrists and arms in spiraling ruby rivulets. “I think I ...” The world started spinning around her and her vision began to dim. Her last thought before she lost consciousness was Why is the world revolving around me? I thought it was supposed to revolve around Nana.
The princess was called away, leaving Imma in the company of Master Basilides and Melina. Her cousin was even quieter than she was and seemed content to listen as the other two conversed. Her proclivity for sketching and painting was no secret, and if Master Basildes spent much time in the palati since Theodora had become Queen, he had likely seen her easel set up in the gardens. He was quite handsome, she thought.
“Yes, please,” she replied, a soft blush flowering across her cheeks. “I would love to have first choice and I promise that I shall tell nobody.” She looked pointedly at Melina, silently imploring her to do the same. Not that she thought Princess Gianna would be the least bit interested. To her knowledge, she didn’t paint. She was probably more interested in the fabrics. I shall offer to paint her portrait after I get the new pigments.
Golden eyebrows quirked upward when Melina broke her silence, explaining what Imma already knew … what pigments were made of. “Yes, you’re right.” The younger Leventi smiled, hoping to encourage her cousin to speak more. It was funny. She was insecure herself, but in Melina’s presence she always felt confident.
Melina tried to correct what she thought was a blunder, claiming that Basildes pigments weren’t made from insects and snails and that they were certain to be beautiful.
“Red paint is often made of minerals, but I think all purple paint comes from snails. There is nothing wrong with that. The snails are not harmed. Only their shells are used. I made some not long ago from the snails I found in the sea. Purple is difficult to find at the market.”
Her smile turned to Basildes. “I will buy all the purple pigment your brother brings. The last time I collected snails, I hurt my foot.” She decided not to mention that the King had joined her and had seen her home safely.
"What are … AHHH!” Before Imma could finish her sentence, a flood of wine, food, and broken glass fell in her lap. Her two companions had fared no better. The culprit was apparently a clumsy servant who tried to clean up the mess. Theo rushed over too and asked if they were all right.
The young blonde felt a sharp stabbing pain and looked down in horror. Several large shards of glass were embedded in her hands. “I .. I don’t think so,” she whispered, holding them both up. Blood poured from the wounds and ran down her wrists and arms in spiraling ruby rivulets. “I think I ...” The world started spinning around her and her vision began to dim. Her last thought before she lost consciousness was Why is the world revolving around me? I thought it was supposed to revolve around Nana.